WK 2: Topic theories of human development

Question 1

Psychodynamic Developmental Theories

Answer 1

Psychoanalytical theorists believe development is an active and dynamic process influenced by biological drives and their conscious and unconscious social and emotional experiences

• Sigmund Freud was the originator of this theory

Erikson’s Psychosocial theory

Psychodynamic theories help us understand the:
* formation of attachments
* development of autonomy and self-control
* development of intimate relationships in adolescence
and adulthood

Question 2

Behavioural learning and social cognitive learning developmental theories

Answer 2

• Changes in existing learning opportunities or the creation of new ones can modify the course of an individual’s
  development
• Behavioural learning theories
  ◦ Pavlov: classical conditioning
  ◦ Skinner: operant conditioning
• Social cognitive learning theory

Question 3

Skinner: operant conditioning

Answer 3

• Reinforcement strengthens response
  ◦ Can be positive or negative
• Punishment weakens response
  ◦ Can be positive or negative
• Extinction – Response disappears
• Shaping – Learning new behaviours

Question 4

Application of cognitive theories

Answer 4

• Can be used to foster infant cognitive development and
  critical thinking in adolescence
• Explain development in:
  ◦ sensorimotor development
  ◦ symbolic thought
  ◦ language development
  ◦ problem-solving
• Examine changes in crystallised and fluid intelligence with
  age