PSYC 221 - Child Psychology

3 Credit (3 lecture, 0 lab) 3 Contact Hours [PSYC 120 ]

1. Identify themes of research within child development
2. Describe research methodologies within the field of child development
3. Describe basic processes of heredity and how it impacts trait development
4. Recognize the major milestones and developmental risks of prenatal development

Goal 2:  Demonstrate an understanding of birth, newborn development, basic patterns of growth, and components of cognitive development.  

1. Articulate processes and complications related to birth
2. Describe characteristics of neonates and early development
3. Describe patterns of physical growth and factors that impact that process
4. Articulate the theoretical views of Piaget and Vygotsky

Goal 3:  Demonstrate an understanding of components of cognitive development, language development, intelligence testing and theory, and components of social/emotional development.

1. Recognize main concepts from information processing and core knowledge theories
2. Articulate normative patterns of language development.
3. Describe theories of intelligence and primary intelligence assessment methods.
4. Describe the core concepts of attachment theory 

Goal 4:  Demonstrate an understanding of components of social/emotional development, development of self, the impact of gender upon development, and the development of prosocial behaviors.

1. Explain key concepts of self-awareness and social/emotional developmental theories
2. Describe how our sense of ourselves develops through childhood and adolescence
3. Articulate the impact of gender upon development and identify gender based developmental traits.
4. Explain factors that impact the development of prosocial behaviors

Goal 5:  Demonstrate an understanding of the development of antisocial behaviors, the developmental impact of friends and family, and the impact of culture upon development.

1. Describe factors that can increase chances of antisocial behaviors
2. Identify developmental patterns of peer relationships
3. Articulate different parenting styles and the impact of parenting upon development
4. Describe early childhood education programs and the impact of school upon development
5. Recognize the impact of culture and diversity upon development

Goal 6:  Apply knowledge of developmental concepts to real life setting.

1. Articulate age-appropriate developmental expectations for children
2. Demonstrate ability to use observed behaviors to illustrate developmental concepts