PSY4512

Contemporary issues in developmental psychology ( 6 points, SCA Band 1, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: Dr J Gordon

Offered:
Clayton First semester 2005 (Day)
Clayton First semester 2005 (OCL)
Singapore First semester 2005 (OCL)

Synopsis: This unit will cover key issues in psychological development across the human lifespan. It aims to increase students' knowledge and understanding of human development and its content will reflect the view that human behaviour, throughout life, is multiply determined by the interaction of both environmental and constitutional influences. For instance, family atmosphere, socioeconomic status, schooling, temperament and cognitive and physical attributes, Deviations from so-called normal development in cognitive, social, emotional and interpersonal domains will be examined with the aim of identifying learning or intervention strategies for maximising human potential and well-being.

Objectives: On completion of this unit on human development across the lifespan students will be able to evaluate arguments pertaining to the nature-nurture issue; compare contrasted theories of physical, cognitive, emotional and personality development; critically examine influences contributing to reported sex differences in development, and identify some psychological components affecting interpersonal communication.

Assessment: 2 hour examination 40% + Two essays (I,500 - 2000 words each): 60%

Contact Hours: 2 hrs contact per week of lectures

Prerequisites: Completion of an Australian Psychological Society (APS)-accredited major sequence in psychology