gesell's maturation theory Flashcards
define maturation
a genetically programmed sequence of change e.g. the onset of the menopause.
what was the main research he carried out?
he developed a new methodology to researching child development, which involved observing large numbers of children to find the skills and abilities that most children had in each age group.
what were his findings?
each child moved through the sequence at their own pace.
development was predetermined and that the environment had little influence.
if a child experiences delayed development, then the problem is heredity rather than the environment.
milestones are helpful for measuring a child’s development or possible delays.
critics of gesell
maturation theory is not helpful in explaining individual or cultural differences or children with learning difficulties.
