Developmental theories

Twyla and Ron are the parents of 2-year-old Ted. They both have stressful jobs, leaving them with few opportunities to have warm interactions with their son. Ted spends 12 hours a day at a daycare center that is understaffed and provides low-quality care. Now that Ted can walk, he is constantly getting into things and making messes. Twyla and Ron become frustrated when Ted loudly bangs on pots and pans, drops things repeatedly, or digs around in the yard. They try to stop him, but he tends to throw severe tantrums when he does not get his way. Not knowing what to do, Twyla and Ron often give in to Ted just to keep the peace. For example, when Ted wants candy or a toy at the store, he will throw a tantrum when his parents say “no”. To avoid embarrassment, Twyla and Ron simply let Ted have what he wants. The stress is starting to take a toll, and Twyla and Ron desperately want help with Ted’s behavior.

Choose two developmental theories (e.g. Piaget’s theory, behaviorism, social learning theory, Erikson’s theory, ecological systems theory). Write a brief paper (approximately 2-5 pages, double-spaced, size 12 font) using what you learned in class or the textbook to:

summarize the main points of each theory in your own words
explain how both theories would account for Ted’s behavior
provide recommendations for Ted’s caregivers, based on each theory

Written Assignment 1: Theories of Development

[Introductory paragraph. Summarize the case study in your own words. Do NOT copy/paste the case study into the body of your paper. State which theories are relevant to the case study.]

[New paragraph. Describe the first theory in your own words. What does this theory say about the factors that influence development? What are the main claims of the theory? Do NOT copy/paste a description of the theory from the textbook or an internet source. Do NOT directly paraphrase a source (i.e., take a sentence from a source and make small changes to it). Instead, take bullet point notes while watching the lecture videos and reading the textbook. Use your notes to write the paper.]

[New paragraph. Relate the theory to the case study. How does the case study explain the child’ behavior? Given what you know about the theory, what recommendations do you have for the caregivers?]

[New paragraphs. Describe the second theory in your own words and relate it to the case study, just like you did with the first theory.]

[Final paragraph. Wrap-up your paper. Summarize how developmental psychology is relevant to the case study.]