Lifespan development theories examine patterns of growth, change, and stability in behavior that occur throughout the entire lifespan. Human development occurs in stages based on a complex interaction of biological, psychological, and social processes. Each of us develops and matures through a series of ages and stages, through which we can achieve our full potential as human beings. The developmental perspective focuses on how human behavior unfolds across the life course; how people change and stay the same over time. Each new stage involves new tasks and brings changes in social roles and statuses. A life span development perspective involves recognition and understanding of each individual’s status and progression in various spheres of development. A social worker can determine how each individual is functioning in his or her ongoing life situation—and what each client needs to experience in order to progress.
Upon successful completion of this discussion, you will be able to:
Explore the impact diversity and difference have in shaping life experiences (PLO #3)
Demonstrate understanding of person-in-environment from a developmental perspective (PLO #6)
Develop knowledge of human behavior and the social environment, person-in-environment, and other multidisciplinary theoretical frameworks in the assessment of clients and constituencies.
Demonstrate knowledge and application of cultural humility by applying critical reflection, self-awareness, and self-regulation to manage the influence of bias, power, privilege, and values in working with clients and constituencies, acknowledging them as experts of their own lived experiences.
Resources
Textbook: Contemporary Human Behavior Theory: A Critical Perspective for Social Work
Background Information
The broad array of theories presented in your readings for this assignment offer important concepts to aid social workers in our understanding of the historical, social, political, and economic factors that have an impact on people’s lives.
Instructions
In your textbook Contemporary Human Behavior Theory: A Critical Perspective for Social Work, read Chapter 8, “Theories of Lifespan Development.”
Navigate to the threaded discussion below. Citing the workshop resource (textbook) in your responses and, writing at least one paragraph for each prompt:
Briefly explain Erickson’s epigenetic stages of development and Gilligan’s critique of the stages.
Identify a stage of Erikson’s you’ve been through. Discuss the conflicts that arose at that stage, the approximate age bands, and the lasting ego quality that arose from the resolution of each conflict.
Briefly summarize the current theories on mid and older life development as explained in the text and discuss their importance in social work.
Discuss how theories of lifespan development are important when engaging, assessing, and considering interventions or treatment for clients and how a client’s cultural differences might affect their perspectives and beliefs on life span development. How might social workers honor clients as experts of their own experiences in areas of lifespan development while pursuing healthy outcomes?
Your initial post is due by the end of the fourth day of the workshop.
Read and respond to at least two of your classmates’ postings, as well as all instructor follow-up questions directed to you, by the end of the workshop.
Your postings should also:
Be well developed by providing clear answers with evidence of critical thinking by providing evidence.
Add greater depth to the discussion by introducing new ideas.
Provide clarification to classmates’ questions and provide insight into the discussion.
Be posted on two different days during the workshop.
Self-assess your initial post and responses using the rubric and make improvements as needed to meet expectations and ensure that your work fulfills all the requirements.
