By: Sarah, Bryce, Stef & Jam Developmental Theory By: Sarah, Bryce, Stef & Jam

What Kind of theory is it? The developmental theory examines biological, psychological, social and cultural factors that influence development in an interdisciplinary approach. 

What does it attempt to explain? Developmental theories are attempts to explain the influential factors that cause individuals in different age groups to act differently. There are many things, however, that need to be considered when deciding which factors are most influential as everybody reacts differently to things. Researchers must also be careful to determine whether the differences are caused by the age-stage of individuals. Differences in behavior could reflect factors that are typical only of those born in the same period of time. An example may be the “baby-boomers”, who may have behavioral patterns that will not be repeated by other adults who are born in a different time period.

What are some of the main areas of focus? The developmental theory is based on long-term studies of many cohorts. Well defined groups can also be used carefully to help understand the behavior of individuals. The family life cycle is another area that is focused on when studying the developmental theory as it has a great influence on the individuals apart of it.

Basic Concepts or Principles Developmental tasks (ex. People develop their individual identity separate from their family make the transition from teenager to adult). Developmental theory attempts to explain the factors that influence differences in behavior demonstrated by individuals in different ages.

Common Bolded Terms Cohort- a group of individuals born in the same well-defined time period (used cautiously to understand the behavior of individuals of the same age) Family life-cycle- a developmental perspective on the life spans of families Normative event- in the family life cycle, the predictable events in life that require a developmental change in behavior (also be called normative crisis; contrast non-normative crisis)

The History of the Family The human life cycle can be divided up into 3 different stages.

Biological From a biological viewpoint, there are stages in the physical development of a human being.

Psychological Human beings go through stages in mental and emotional development. Psychological scientists that contributed: 1.Freud 2.Erik Erikson 3.Jean Piaget

Child Abuse http://www.metacafe.com/watch/60058/child_abuse/

Human Sexuality Human sexuality is the way in which we experience and express ourselves as sexual beings.

The Role of Women in the Family Position: All members of a family have a position in the family. Positions generally refer to the kinship structure of the family. Positions include but are not limited to: father, mother, son, daughter, brother, sister, husband, and wife. As a family develops, new positions are adopted within the family structure. Norms: Family norms are the rules society places on families and its members. Norms affect the family differently at different stages of development. Norms play a part in how the family behaves and operates in the different stages of development. David Comp, Theories of families Relationships

Adolescent Behavior Tasks: -Balancing freedom with responsibility as teenagers mature and become increasingly autonomous -Refocusing the marital relationship -Open communication between parents and children Freidman, M.M (1998), Chp 6: Family Developmental Theory

Legalizing Marijuana Depends on: -Transitions in their life -The norm in their family, school and/or society

The END Questions?