PSY 223W - Child Psychology

Credits: 3
Instructional Contact Hours: 3

Provides a comprehensive exploration of the physical, cognitive, and social/emotional development of children from conception to the onset of adolescence. Explores the significance of childhood in the total life span. Analyzes the impact of heredity, environment, and culture on children's development, as well as the impact children have on others.

Prerequisite(s): PSY 211W with a grade of “C” or better
Corequisite(s): None
Lecture Hours: 45 Lab Hours: 0
Meets MTA Requirement: Social Science
Pass/NoCredit: No

Outcomes and Objectives

Evaluate the foundations of developmental research.
1. Describe design and methods
2. Discuss ethical issues associated with this research.
Demonstrate understanding of prominent issues related to the field of human development.
1. Describe nature vs. nurture
2. Discuss what is meant by critical periods
3. Explain change vs. continuity
4. Explain social policy
5. Discuss cultural diversity
Explain principles or theories associated with the physical-motor domain of development.
1. Discuss cephalocaudal vs. proximodistal development
2. Explain the development of the brain
3. Discuss developmental milestones
4. Explain the role of genetics
Explain principles or theories associated with the cognitive-language domain of development.
1. Explain constructivism (e.g. Piaget and Vygotsky)
2. Discuss information processing
3. Discuss moral development
Explain principles or theories associated with the social-emotional domain of development.
1. Explain attachment
2. Explain temperament
3. Discuss learning theory
Apply the principles and theories of development.

A. Complete assignments on the theories
B. Produce written reports (e.g., child study).