Choose one of the essay questions and provide a critical appraisal of the proposed theory. You must include methodological considerations. 2000 words
Outline and evaluate the methodologies used in the development of Personal Construct Theory. Include relevant research to support your answer.
Appraise methodological assumptions in formulating the five factors of personality model and its relevance in relation to contemporary findings.
Evaluate methodologies used by Cattell (1965) in the 16F Personality Factors Test.
Suggested structure:
Introduction
·
Present the theory and how the
discussion will be structured; (approx. 500)
Main body
·
Evaluate the significance of the methodological
issue related to the chosen personality theory( i.e., lexical approach,
atheoretical approach, factorial analysis, cultural validity etc.) (approx.
1000)
Conclusion
·
Summarise the main argument and
highlight an open-ended recommendation. (approx. 500)
Choosing
two developmental matters derived from Lily’s case study, contrast theoretical
approaches with reference to early development and discuss
their impact throughout lifespan.(2000 words)
Case study
Lily, a
5-year-old girl, who consistently shares toys and shows concern for others’
well-being. Her understanding of right and wrong is evident in her reactions to
fairness and empathy towards peers. It is predicted that Lily’s early displays of empathy and
sharing will lay the foundation for her moral reasoning. As she grows, she will
encounter increasingly complex moral dilemmas that challenge her understanding
of right and wrong. Through experiences and exposure to diverse perspectives,
Lily’s moral reasoning will continue to evolve, influencing her decision-making
and ethical conduct in adolescence and adulthood.
In terms of
language development, Lily uses complex vocabulary, and expressed fluently complex
ideas and narratives. Her vocabulary reflects exposure to rich linguistic
environment, indicative of a nurturing language environment at home and in
school. Lily’s advanced linguistic
skills suggest a strong foundation for continued language development. As she
matures, her vocabulary will expand, and her language use will become more
sophisticated, reflecting her evolving cognitive abilities and social
experiences. In adulthood, Lily may continue to refine her communication skills
in professional and personal contexts.
Attachment-wise,
Lily securely bonds with her primary caregivers, seeking comfort and
reassurance from them during stressful situations. Her attachment figures serve
as secure bases, facilitating exploration and autonomy in her social
interactions. Lily’s secure
attachment with her caregivers provides a basis for forming healthy
relationships throughout life. As she matures, her attachment patterns may
influence her romantic partnerships, friendships, and parenting style. Secure
attachment fosters resilience and emotional regulation, contributing to Lily’s
overall well-being across the lifespan.
Cognitively,
Lily engages in imaginative play, demonstrating symbolic thought and
problem-solving abilities. Her cognitive development is evident in her
curiosity and eagerness to explore new concepts and challenges. Lily’s imaginative play and
problem-solving abilities indicate ongoing cognitive development. Throughout
childhood and adolescence, she will continue to develop cognitive skills such
as critical thinking, decision-making, and abstract reasoning. In adulthood,
Lily’s cognitive abilities may influence her academic and career achievements,
as well as her ability to adapt to new challenges.
Socially,
Lily thrives in peer interactions, displaying cooperative behaviours and
negotiating conflicts effectively. Her social development is characterized by
empathy, perspective-taking, and a growing understanding of social norms and
roles. Lily’s positive
interactions with peers lay the groundwork for healthy social development. As
she navigates adolescence and adulthood, Lily will face increasing social
complexity, including peer pressure, societal expectations, and cultural norms.
Her ability to navigate these challenges and form meaningful relationships will
be influenced by her social skills, emotional intelligence, and interpersonal
experiences.
Suggested structure:
1. Introduction (LO1) and
Background (LO2) (approx. 500 words)
• Identify the key developmental factors in the case study: i.e.
identify two developmental issues from the case study (intro) and
briefly explain why you have chosen those (background)
2. Main body (LO1) (approx. 1000 words)
·
An overview of classical theory/ies for each (of two) developmental
matters (for example, Attachment – e.g.
Bowlby and/or Ainsworth; Social development – e.g. Bandura, Vygotsky; Moral
development – e.g. Baltes, Piaget; ToM/EF – e.g. Piaget, Leslie, Wimmer & Perner;
Language development – e.g. Piaget, Chomsky, Skinner
·
Critique of classical theory/ies and the impact throughout life span (for
example, Attachment – e.g. cultural
validity; ecological validity; fathers – as attachment figure; trauma; life
events; ecological systems etc.; Social development – e.g. prosocial behaviour,
empathy, cultural differences etc.; Moral development – e.g. individual differences (see, Gilligan);
cultural deference; etc.; ToM/EF – e.g. developmental stages are not fixed;
neurodevelopmental disorders; individual differences; Language development –
e.g. language is not innate; social
theories etc.
·
Brief links with the case
study
3. Conclusions (LO2) (approx.
500 words)
• Summarise main points
and address any limitations to the proposed theories
• If applicable,
recommend further action to resolve some of the issues
Level HE5 – It is expected
that the Reference List will contain between five to ten sources. As a MINIMUM the Reference List should include
three refereed academic journals and two
academic books.
