Part 1:

Many people think that human development means childhood development from birth to adolescence. This assumption had been supported by the developmental theories of Freud and Piaget. However, we will learn throughout this course that development does not end at the start of adulthood; it continues till the end-of-life. This is the life span perspective of development. Describe the importance of the life span perspective of development.

Describe some of the main hallmarks of each one of these groups, using your own life experiences and observations explain why each one of these areas is important to study.

• Childhood

• Adolescence

• Adulthood

• Old Age

Justify your answers with appropriate reasoning and research from your text and course readings. Comment on the postings of at least two peers, and provide an analysis of each peer's postings while also suggesting specific additions or clarifications for improving the discussion question response.

Part 2:

Several theories attempt to describe human development.

• Briefly describe how Freud, Erickson, and Piaget developed their theories.

• Explain why there is much criticism about race, ethnicity, gender, and social and economic status when it comes to human growth and development theories.

• Choose two theories, each from a different area (e.g., psychoanalytic, cognitive, and behavioral or social cognitive theories). Briefly describe their main features, explain their major similarities and differences.