Students examine the growth and development of individuals throughout their life span with a special emphasis on the influence of family systems. Students identify and analyze the impact of various influences on families and individuals, including social relationships, culture, environments and historical changes. Students debate and question the future of family systems in society. Students study the significance of prenatal and perinatal factors in the development of individuals during the first two years of life. Students focus on the interrelationships of various developmental sequences throughout infancy.
Students analyze and critique the value of prominent theories of infant development.
Students study the young child, from conception through late childhood. The physical, social, emotional, moral, and intellectual development of the child within the family and preschool setting are understood. Students identify and summarize developmental sequences in growth and maturation. Potential problems in the sequence of growth and development are identified. Students study the reciprocity of relationships between and among family members.