Human Development: Infant, Preschool Child, and Adolescent
Human Development Assignment 7
Unless otherwise stated, answer in complete sentences, and be sure to use correct English spelling and grammar. Sources must be cited in APA format. Your response should be three (3) pages in length.
Compare and contrast the following populations using meaningful examples for each stage of development below. Please describe how they are developmentally similar and different:
Part A: The social and personality development of the infant versus the psychosocial, social, and moral development of the preschool child.
Part B: The physical, intellectual development of the preschool child, the physical, intellectual/cognitive development of middle childhood, and the physical and cognitive development of the adolescent.
When providing your response, use at least two (2) evidence-based research resources in the last three years that support recent scientific findings, citing at least two (2) specific examples of new discoveries in each of the areas above.
Human Development
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Part A:
It is imperative to recognize the significance of both the social and personality development of the infant and the psychosocial, social, and moral development of the preschool child. These crucial stages of development lay the groundwork for an individual's future interpersonal relationships and behavioral patterns. Nevertheless, it is important to note that there are distinct differences between these two developmental stages. Understanding these differences can aid in a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of child development.
The development of social and personality characteristics in infants commences at birth and progresses throughout the first two years of life. Within this time frame, infants undergo a series of developmental milestones that contribute to their sense of self and ability to interact with others. For instance, infants develop self-awareness through recognition of their reflection in the mirror. Also, they form attachments to their caregivers and acquire the ability to communicate their needs through various forms of vocalization, such as crying, cooing, and babbling. Furthermore, an infant’s personality development is influenced by many factors, including their inherent temperament, interactions with caregivers, and environmental experiences.
Children in preschool, typically between the ages of three and five, undergo significant psychosocial, social, and moral development. During this period, they gain a sense of independence and autonomy as they master tasks such as dressing themselves and using the bathroom independently (Newton, 2022). Besides, preschool children develop a sense of morality and understanding of right and wrong. For instance, they may recognize that hitting others or taking things without permission is unacceptable behavior. Additionally, this stage of development is marked by the emergence of social skills as children learn to interact with their peers, form friendships, and engage in cooperative behaviors such as sharing and taking turns.
Children undergo significant changes in their sense of self, social skills, and morality during infancy and preschool developmental stages. However, there are distinct differences between these two stages of development. In the infant stage, the primary focus is on forming attachments with caregivers and learning to communicate needs effectively (Tyler, 2020). In contrast, the preschool stage is characterized by developing independence, social skills, and a sense of morality. Still, while infants are still developing self-awareness, preschool children have a more developed sense of self and are beginning to understand their thoughts and feelings. Overall, infants' social and personality development and preschool children's psychosocial, social, and moral development are crucial stages that lay the foundation for future relationships and behaviors.
Part B: