SW433, Developmental psychology

#very short questions:

1. Define developmental psychology in one sentence.
Developmental Psychology is a branch of psychology that studies changes in human behavior from early life to
death. It studies and describes phsyical, mental, emotional and behavioural changes which happen with changes in
age.

2. List out any two developmental tasks of early adulthood stages.

Physical efficiency, Motor abilities, Mental abilities, Motivation, Role mode

3. Mention any two principles of childhood stages.

a. The growth pattern follows a genetic sequence
b. All individuals are different
c. Development is continuous

4. What do you mean by new born stages?

It is first stage which is found in the first month of life. In medical contexts, newborn or neonate (from Latin,
neonatus, newborn) refers to an infant in the first 28 days after birth.

5. What is moral development in psychology?

Moral development is what each person goes through as they grow and develop.
The moral development definition refers to the ways people choose between right and wrong as they mature.
Morals are influenced by social and cultural norms, as well as established laws.
It is important dimension of human development.

6. Write any two problems of late adulthood stages(old age)

a.Financial insecurity
b.Ageism and a lost sense of purpose
c. End of life preparations
d. Finding the right care provision

Highlight any two roles of social worker in early adulthood stages.

a.Developing skills to manage stress & good mental health.
b.Establishing a basic, workable budget that includes a savings plan.
c.Building a career.

7. Define emotional development in one sentence.

Emotional development refers to the ability to recognize, express, and manage feelings at different stages of life
and to have empathy for the feelings of others.
The development of these emotions, which include both positive and negative emotions, is largely affected by
relationships with parents, siblings, and peers

8. List out any 2 roles of developmental psychology in social work practice.

a. To thoroughly understand human behavior
b. Attempts to bring changes, and watching how the audiences react on it
c. Developing skills to manage stress and maintain good mental health.
9. Define the concept of social participation.
Social participation is defined as a person's involvement in activities that provide interaction with others in the
society or the community and expresses interpersonal interactions with others in society.

10. Write 2 stages of child psychology

Prenatal period & Infancy period

11. List out 2 roles of social worker in child psychology

a. Care coordinator and an evaluator of children's mental, emotional, academic, and social needs
b. Provide mental health counseling and therapy

12. What is neonatal period

Neonatal period is stage of psychology which lasts for nearly 2 weeks in which child adjusts himself psychologically
to new environment
13. What is vocational interest?
Vocational interests are noncognitive constructs defined as relatively stable individual preferences for certain types
of work.
14. Childhood is the early stage of human life, typically characterized by innocence, dependency on caregivers, and
significant physical, cognitive, and emotional development.
15. Adolescence is the transitional period between childhood and adulthood, marked by physical and psychological
changes, identity exploration, and the development of independence. Age 10-20
16. Early adulthood is the life stage typically spanning from the late teens to the 30s, characterized by the pursuit of
independence, career development, formation of intimate relationships, and personal identity exploration.
17. Middle adulthood refers to the life stage typically occurring between the ages of 40 and 65, characterized by
career stability, family responsibilities, and a heightened awareness of aging, leading individuals to reflect on their
life achievements and future goals.
18. Late adulthood/Old age is the final life stage, usually beginning around age 65, marked by the challenges of
aging, potential retirement, reflection on life achievements, and the consideration of one's legacy.

# Short questions
19. What are the developmental task? Explain the different developmental tasks, characteristics and problems in
childhood and old age.
Development task is defined as a set of skills and competencies peculiar to each stage of development that must be
accomplished to deal effectively with their environment.
Childhood: Childhood is the period between infancy Old Age: The period of old age begins at the age of
and adulthood i.e. from 2 to 13 or 14 years. sixty.
Developmental tasks Developmental tasks
a.Physical Development task : Growth & development, 1) Adjusting to decreasing physical strength and
Fine& Gross motor skills, Self care skills , health health: There is a progressive decline in energy
maintenance production. Bones become increasingly brittle and
b.Emotional Development task: Emotional regulation, tend to break easily
self- concept, empathy, coping skills 2) Adjusting to retirement and reduced income
c. Social Development task: Attachement, peer 3) Adjusting to death of spouse
relationships, social skills, cultural competence 4) Establishing an explicit affiliation with one’s age
d.Cognitive Development task: Language development, group
memory &attention, conceptual understanding, 5) Meeting social and civic obligations
 reasoning & problem-solvine 6) Establishing satisfactory physical living
arrangements

Characteristics Characteristics
a.Stability in physical and mental growth a.Health: Natural decay of body functioning, Mental
b. Increase in Mental Abilities health problems
c. High level of curiosity b.Social Situation: Ample free time but less of
d.Feeling of self dependence energy and money
e.Interest in constructive work c.Economic Security : Reduces income, economic
f.Socio- emotional development dependence
g.Physical activities
h.Rapid growth in cognitive domain
i.Motor Skills
j.Senses development
k.Language acquisition and increase in vocabulary
Problem in Childhood Problem in old age
a.Learning & Intellectual Disabilities a.Financial insecurity
b.Behavioral problems & social anxiety or isolation b.Ageism and a lost sense of purpose
c. Speech delays & Language disorders c. End of life preparations
d. Sensory integration disorder d. Finding the right care provision
e.Social & communication challenges e.Physical health issues
f. Attention & Hyperactivity Disorder f. Mental health challenges

20. Explain the meaning of middle adulthood with the adjustment problem.
Middle adulthood, also known as midlife, generally spans from approximately 40 to 65 years of age. During this
life stage, individuals typically experience various adjustments and challenges. Adjustment problems in middle
adulthood can manifest in different areas of life, including personal relationships, career, health, and
psychological well-being. Here are some common aspects of middle adulthood and associated adjustment
issues:
1. Career and Work Challenges:
Midlife Career Changes: Individuals may reassess their career choices, seeking new challenges or considering a
change in profession.
Job Dissatisfaction: Midlife often prompts reflection on career accomplishments and satisfaction, leading some
to reevaluate their professional paths.
2. Family and Relationship Adjustments:
Empty Nest Syndrome:As children leave home, parents may experience a sense of loss and need to redefine
their roles and priorities.
Marital Satisfaction:Couples may face challenges in maintaining or rekindling intimacy, especially as they
navigate the stressors of midlife.
3. Physical Changes and Health Concerns:
Aging and Health Issues: The awareness of aging and the potential onset of health problems can be a source of
stress.
Weight Gain and Fitness: Changes in metabolism and lifestyle may lead to weight gain, prompting the need for
adjustments in diet and exercise.
4. Psychological and Emotional Adjustments:
Midlife Crisis: Some individuals may experience a period of self-reflection and reassessment, often associated
with a desire for significant life changes.
 Existential Concerns: Questions about life purpose, meaning, and mortality may become more prominent
during midlife.
5. Financial Considerations:
Financial Planning: Individuals may confront the need to plan for retirement and ensure financial stability in the
later years.
Economic Pressures: Economic challenges, such as job loss or financial strain, can impact individuals and their
families.
6. Social and Friendships:
Friendship Dynamics: Social circles may change as friends relocate, and individuals may need to invest in new
social connections.
Isolation: Feelings of isolation can arise, particularly if individuals experience significant life changes or loss.
It's important to recognize that not everyone experiences a midlife crisis, and adjustment issues can vary
widely among individuals. Some people navigate this period with resilience and a positive outlook, while
others may face greater difficulties. Seeking support from friends, family, or mental health professionals can be
beneficial during times of adjustment. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, staying socially engaged,
and setting realistic goals can contribute to a more positive experience of middle adulthood.

21. Describe the family relationships, family friction and personality changes during adolescence stage
During this period, the adolescents want independence from their parents and yet they are dependent on them for
their needs. They do not like to be told “Do this” and “Don’t do this”. Parents still want to control them while the
adolescents want freedom and this leads to a tussle between the parents and adolescents. Here, the parents have
to decide how much control they should exercise on their adolescent children, how much freedom is to be given, in
which area they can let the adolescent have his/her say and in which they need to put their foot down. In short, the
parents have to work out a congenial and workable disciplinary technique .
Let us discuss some parenting styles and their influence:
(1) Parents who give more freedom to the adolescent as he or she grows and at the same time take interest and
responsibility for adolescent’s decisions, encourage the adolescent to become more independent and responsible.
(2) Parents who are very strict and who play the role of an authority figure, i.e., who do not let the adolescent take
any decision on her own, seriously hamper the adolescent’s ability to be independent.
(3) On the other hand if parents are indifferent, i.e., who leave the adolescents with their problems and do not
interact with them, have children who grow up with indifferent attitudes.

Adolescents often become more influenced by their peers, leading to potential conflicts with family values.
Peer pressure can contribute to changes in behavior, attitudes, and interests, sometimes causing tension within the
family.
Hormonal changes during adolescence can contribute to emotional intensity and mood swings. This can be challenging
for both adolescents and their family members to navigate.
Conflicts may escalate due to heightened emotions.
Adolescents may experiment with different coping mechanisms, such as withdrawing from family interactions, engaging
in risk-taking behavior, or seeking support from friends.
Families may need to find constructive ways to support each other during challenging times.
Communication can become strained as adolescents may be less willing to share their thoughts and feelings with their
parents.
Misunderstandings can arise due to differences in communication styles and the challenge of expressing complex
emotions.
Parents who encourage the adolescent to participate in family matters, value their opinion and take more interest
in their activities, have children who are more confident. Thus, we can say that the parent-adolescent relationship
should be based on mutual respect and love. Examine your relationship with your parents. Do you face any problems?
How do you and your parents solve them?
Also remember, just as the parents understand their adolescent, the adolescent should also understand parent’s
point of view and take their advice – parents have years of experience behind them.
Conflict with Parents
Adolescents have a tendency to be rebellious and to resist adult authority. In particular, adolescence is a time when
conflict with parents is especially high.
Adolescence is a time when the wisdom and advice of parents and teachers is overtopped, and in ruder natures may
be met by blank contradiction. This conflict makes adolescence difficult not just for adolescents but for their parents
also. Parents tend to perceive adolescence as the most difficult stage of their children’s development. Adolescents
and their parents complain about each others behaviour. Parents often feel they have lost any sort of control or
influence over their child. Adolescents want their parents to be clear and consistent about rules and boundaries, but
at the same time may resent any restrictions on their growing freedom and ability to decide for themselves.
However, it should be added that there are substantial individual differences, and there are many parents and
adolescents between whom there is little conflict, even if overall rates of conflict between parents and children rise in
adolescence. Conflict between adolescents and their parents may be beneficial to adolescents’ development, as it
promotes the development of individuality and autonomy within the context of a warm relationship. This may be
true, but high conflict may make adolescence a difficult time for adolescents and their parents.

22. What is mean by adolescents stage? Describe the social and emotional changes during this stage.
Adolescence is referred to as teenage years, youth and puberty. Adolescence is the transitional period between
childhood and maturity occurring roughly between ages 10 and 20.Adolescence is the most crucial and significant
period of human life. It is the period which begins at the end of childhood and ends at the beginning of adulthood.
Social Development or Change :
a.Develops an attitude for discussion and conversation.
b.Urge to make friendship with those who conform to their standard.
c.Social interest becomes specialized.
d.More interested to make friendship with the opposite sex
e.Increased influence of peer group.

Let us list the Emotional Changes during Adolescence as below

a.Emotional ability understanding their feelings.
b.Impulsiveness
c.Preoccupied with body image
d.Frequent mood changes and mood swings
e.Self-exploration and evaluation of their emotions
f.Confused at times
g.Poor coping skills – succumb to stress and emotions
h.Day dreaming and fantasizing
i.Attention-seeking behaviour to feel wanted.
j. Increased complexity.
k. Development of abstract emotion.
l. Capacity to bear tension.
m. Capacity to share emotion.
n. Increased compassion.
o. Widened emotional feeling.
p. Expanded loyalties beyond home and neighbour hood.
q. Increased hopes and aspirations.
r. Increased feeling of loneliness.
#long question
23. What is mean by developmental psychology? Describe the principles of developmental psychology.
A branch of psychology that studies changes in human behavior from early life to death . The branch of psychology
concerned with the study of progressive behavioral changes in an individual from birth until maturity.
This section attempts to explain briefly the basic process of human development.
It will assess the role and importance of i) growth processes and levels and ii) the principles of growth and
behaviour in the total life span.
Growth Process Child development is marked by three interrelated processes. They are differentiation, integration
and learning.
a. The growth pattern follows a genetic sequence- The physiological development of the human being manifests
itself in a universal and orderly process of structural change marked by two interrelated kinds of sequence: (i) the
cephalocandal and (ii) the proximodistal.
Cephalocandal sequence, as the name indicates, is progression of differentiation and structural maturation from
the head, through the trunk, to the extreme parts of the body. This means that the infant’s brain and head grow
faster and reach maturity earlier than visceral organs. At birth, the head makes up over 20 percent of body length;
at maturity the ratio decreases and head area claims only 8 percent of body length. The extreme parts are last to
mature. In terms of morphological changes, then later stages of life are marked by the same order. Thus, the brain
deteriorates and loses its weight at a faster rate than visceral organs do.
b. All individuals are different- Though to an inexperienced eye some individuals, especially identical twins, may
appear much alike if not the same, careful observation always reveals that no two persons are identical in any of
their observable aspects. Each individual continuously changes in his/ her own way, even when some appearance
and behaviour traits seem to remain constant. Parents seem to forget this basic principle when they expect similar
rates of development in their own children.
c. Systems and functions of the organism grow at different rate-All systems and organs of the human body have
individual, cyclic and asynchronous rates of structural and functional development. The brain, for example, grows
at a very rapid rate during prenatal and early postnatal stages and reaches its approximately full weight several years
before pubertal changes commence. On the other hand, during the early years of life there is only very limited
increment of the genital organs and system. The implication of this for learning and performance is obvious if
parents and teachers are clear about which abilities and skills are involved in the production of a particular
behaviour.
d. Unfolding abilities and skills spontaneously expressed-There resides in the infant, child, adolescent, and adult,
a powerful impulse to grow and mature, to unfold new abilities and to improve them by practise and revision. For
example, as soon as the infant develops a new motor skill or language ability, s/he experiences a powerful impulse
to practise it. When babbling and creeping takes a new form, exercises may absorb the infant for hours. Creeking is
discarded as soon as walking is established. Thus, curiosity and desire for exploration, for new experiences and for
progress in the application of abilities and skills extend far into the advanced stages of life and usually do not fully
disappear in old age.
e. Each phase of development has characteristic traits and features-If you observe the play activities of an infant
and a four years old child, you will be impressed by differences in approach, complexity, duration and other formal
elements of play despite the fact that the play material and situation may be practically the same. Through
observation of each phase of development you will notice that some characteristic traits or forms of adjustment
generally classified as “problem behaviour” are not problem behaviours, rather they are the characteristic
behaviour of that phase of development, for example, nail biting, asking too many questions, etc
f. The development is continuous- In the acquisition of a new ability or skill, there are preparational and manifest
phases. Cooing and babbling exercises are recognised as underlying stages of forthcoming speech development.
Simple patterns of play are practices long before complex play activities can be attempted. The earlier
developments are integrated in a new pattern, and a readiness for understanding of new horizons is acquired. Since
the developmental course follows orderly sequences, forthcoming growth and behaviour are predictable:
g. Individuals develop as a unified whole-The levels of biological, psychological, and intellectual growth and
integration may differ from person to person, yet there are no individuals whose bodily functions, mental abilities
or personality organisation lack unification at any phase of development. Certain aspects of development may be
uneven or to a degree dissociated in exceptional children and mentally disordered individuals.

24. Explain the changing interest, types of social interest and problem in early adulthood period.
During early adulthood, which typically spans from approximately ages 18 to 40, individuals undergo significant
personal, social, and cognitive changes. This period is characterized by the pursuit of independence, the
establishment of identity, and the exploration of various life domains. Here are some key aspects related to changing
interests, types of social interest, and problems during early adulthood:
Changing interest in early adulthood
-Change in Health condition
-Change in Economic condition
-Change in life pattern
-Change in Value
-Change in Sex role
-Change in single to married status
-Change in assumptions of family role
-Change in preference
-Change in cultural and environmental conditions

Types of Social Interest:

a.Friendships:The importance of peer relationships often continues into early adulthood. Friendships provide
emotional support, companionship, and opportunities for socialization.
b.Romantic Relationships: Forming and maintaining romantic relationships becomes a significant focus. Individuals
may explore long-term commitments, cohabitation, and the potential for starting families.
c.Professional Networks: Building a professional network becomes crucial for career development. Networking can
open up opportunities for job advancement, skill development, and collaboration.

Problems in Early Adulthood:

a.Identity Crisis: Some individuals may experience identity crises as they grapple with questions about their
purpose, values, and life direction.
b.Career Challenges: The pressure to establish a successful career and financial independence can be stressful. Job
instability, dissatisfaction, and the pursuit of work-life balance are common concerns.
c.Relationship Struggles: Early adulthood often involves navigating the complexities of intimate relationships.
Issues such as communication difficulties, commitment concerns, and conflicts may arise.
d.Mental Health: Some individuals may face mental health challenges, including anxiety and depression, especially
when dealing with the pressures of transitioning into adulthood.
e.Cultural Expectations: Cultural backgrounds can influence the expectations and norms surrounding education,
career choices, and family life.
f.Socioeconomic Factors: Economic circumstances can impact access to education, career opportunities, and the
ability to achieve financial independence.
It's important to note that the experiences of early adulthood can vary widely among individuals, influenced by
factors such as culture, socioeconomic status, and personal circumstances. Additionally, societal changes and trends
may contribute to shifts in the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals during this life stage
.
23. What is mean by vocational adjustment elaborate the different types of factors and characteristics influencing
adjustment
Vocational adjustment is a process which facilitates an individual to gain the skills, attitude, resources that might require
and individual to compete for job, gain job and maintain it.
Several adjustments in early adulthood- Sex role adjustment, Vocational adjustment (Job dissatisfaction), Marital
adjustment, Sexual adjustment, Financial adjustment, Adjustment to parenthood.
Vocational adjustment
Henry Smith (1961) in a conclusive statement stated that a good adjustment is one that is both realistic and satisfactory.
The adjustment refers to the ability to adapt to new situations or changes in one’s environment. There are several
factors that can affect a person’s adjustment, including:
1. Needs: Needs are such internal and external conditions that are manifested in behaviour and continuous till the
balance is established. Need is an experience of break-in balance deprivation of loss of something. Such experience
produces tension and is continuous till the needs are satisfied. The satisfaction of needs gives relief to the individual.
2. Frustration: Due to some forces, when the individual gets total failure in the satisfaction of needs, he feels a sense of
defeat. Such a sense of defeat is frustration. The results of frustration are unsure. It makes individuals insulate, aimless
and avoidance of reality or it is a challenge to his personality and prepares them to make more efforts for the
achievement of goals. Frustration affects personality and adjustment processes psychologists have proved it.
3. Interpersonal Relationships: All the social relation involves the relationship between two or more persons. Our
behaviour influences others and in turn, others behaviour affect our behaviour. We can understand the importance of
interaction when there is a complete absence of interaction. There are five factors of interaction-expression, feedback,
social expectation, role behavior, mutual satisfaction,etc.
4. The Knowledge of Ways of Adjustment: When the personal adjustment becomes difficult, it demands insight/skill. As
the individual becomes a trainee social and personal adjustment becomes satisfactory and developing. In personal
adjustment, the individuals must learn to establish relations with others and satisfy his needs in the present situation. So
it is necessary to have the knowledge of psychological approaches to adjustment, knowledge about self and others and
understanding the problems of life.
5. Personality: Some individuals may have a more flexible and adaptable personality, which allows them to adjust more
easily to new situations, while others may have a more rigid personality, which may make it more difficult for them to
adapt.
6. Support system: Having a strong support system, such as family, friends, or a community, can provide a sense of
security and help individuals cope with stress and change.
7. Life experiences: Previous life experiences, such as traumatic events or significant life changes, can impact a person’s
ability to adjust to new situations.
8. Cultural background: Cultural values, beliefs, and practices can influence how individuals approach to change and
adjust to new situations.
9. Mental health: Individuals with mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, may find it more challenging to
adjust to new situations.
10. Coping skills: The ability to cope with stress and change can greatly impact a person’s adjustment. Effective coping
skills include problem-solving, positive thinking, and seeking support from others.
11. Resources: Access to resources, such as education, healthcare, and financial stability, can also impact a person’s
ability to adjust to new situations.

Adjustment in psychology involves an individual's ability to cope with and adapt to various life stressors,
challenges, and changes. Several characteristics play a crucial role in influencing psychological adjustment. Here are
some key characteristics:
1. Resilience: ability to bounce back from adversity, trauma, or stress.
2. Coping Strategies:
3. Flexibility:adapt to new situations and adjust to changing circumstances is vital for psychological adjustment.
4. Self-Efficacy: in their own capabilities to handle challenges and achieve goals
6. Social Skills: Effective communication and interpersonal skills, understand and empathize with others
7. Emotional Intelligence:Understanding one's own emotions and regulate them is crucial for effective adjustment.
8. Self-Reflection:Awareness of Thoughts and Feelings
9. Openness to Experience:Being open to new ideas, experiences
10. Sense of Purpose: purpose and direction in life provides individuals with motivation and resilience
11. Social Support: Feeling connected to others and having a sense of belonging contributes to well-being.
12. Autonomy: ability to make independent decisions and take control of one's life
13. Cognitive Flexibility: ability to shift cognitive strategies and adapt thinking
14. Health and Wellness:Physical Health
These characteristics interact and influence each other, contributing to the overall psychological adjustment of an
individual. It's important to note that psychological adjustment is a dynamic process, and individuals may need to
draw on various characteristics at different times in their lives. Additionally, the influence of these characteristics can
vary across cultural contexts and individual differences.
UNIT-1
1.Explain the roles of psychology in social work practice
i. Psychology deals with human behaviour, emotions and projections.
ii. Deals with factors for formation of behaviour patterns.
iii. Get to know about social process from psychology
iv. Understand the interaction pattern between heredity and environment and explain to us the reasons for aware
of individual differences
v. Helps understand and analyse human behaviour.
vi. In resolving problems related to adjustment, psychology helps social work.
vii. The method of social case work of social work profession is dependent on psychology.
viii. Help in the field of social work practice like individual and family case work ,diagnosing and treatment planning
for problem of children related to schooling; individual's adjustment with primary and secondaiy groups, physical
and mental patients' accommodation with medical requirements and adjustment with others;
ix. Understanding, diagnosing and modifying group behaviour and developing leadership qualities; ego analysis
and strengthening and understanding defensive reactions (mechanisms) of individuals and counselling and
guidance for enhancement in positive adjustment and fulfilment of needs of individual and society.
Psychology plays a crucial role in social work practice, as it provides a theoretical framework and practical
tools for understanding and addressing the complex interactions within individuals, families, groups, and
communities. Here are several key roles of psychology in social work practice:
1. Assessment and Diagnosis:Clinical Assessment-Psychologists contribute to the assessment of individuals
and families by conducting clinical assessments, diagnosing mental health disorders, and identifying
psychological factors that may impact social functioning.
2. Understanding Human Behavior:Developmental Psychology- Social workers draw on developmental
psychology to understand how individuals grow and change across the lifespan.
3. Treatment Planning and Intervention:Therapeutic Interventions- Psychological theories and evidence-based
interventions are applied in social work practice to address emotional, behavioral, and cognitive issues.
4. Crisis Intervention:Crisis Psychology- assess and intervene effectively during emergencies, such as trauma,
abuse, or sudden life changes.
5. Cultural Competence:Cross-Cultural Psychology- Psychological theories related to cultural competence and
understanding cultural nuances contribute to building rapport and delivering culturally sensitive
interventions.
 6. Group Dynamics:Group Psychology-Social workers often facilitate group interventions. Understanding
group dynamics, communication patterns, and interpersonal relationships helps in creating therapeutic and
supportive group environments.
7. Advocacy and Social Justice:Social Psychology-Social workers engage in advocacy and social justice
initiatives, drawing on principles from social psychology to understand how social structures, stereotypes,
and biases impact individuals and communities.
8. Prevention and Education:Health Psychology- Incorporating principles from health psychology helps in
promoting mental health and preventing psychological issues.
9. Research and Evaluation:Research Methods-Psychologically informed research methods are applied in social
work to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions, identify best practices, and contribute to the evidence
base of social work practice.
By integrating psychological principles into their practice, social workers can better understand, assess, and
address the diverse needs of the individuals and communities they serve.

2. Explain child psychology.

Child psychology is a branch of psychology that focuses specifically on the study of children's behavior,
development, and mental processes from infancy through adolescence. It aims to understand how children grow
and change physically, cognitively, socially, and emotionally. Child psychologists explore various factors that
influence development.
Here are key components of child psychology:
1.Developmental Milestones- Child psychologists examine the typical patterns and milestones that children reach
at different ages. This includes motor skills, language development, cognitive abilities, and social-emotional
milestones.
2.Cognitive Development - The study of cognitive development in children involves understanding how they acquire,
organize, and use information. The work of Jean Piaget is particularly influential in this area, as he identified stages
of cognitive development, including sensorimotor, preoperational, concrete operational, and formal operational
stages.
3. Social and Emotional Development- Child psychologists investigate how children develop social skills, form
relationships, and navigate emotions. Erik Erikson's psychosocial stages highlight the importance of developing trust,
autonomy, initiative, competence, identity, intimacy, generativity, and integrity at different life stages.
4. Language Development - The acquisition of language is a critical aspect of child psychology. Researchers explore
how children learn to communicate, develop language skills, and understand the nuances of language. Noam
Chomsky's theory of a universal grammar and the critical period for language acquisition are important concepts in
this field.
5. Attachment and Bonding - Child psychologists study the formation of emotional bonds between children and
their caregivers. Attachment theory, developed by John Bowlby, emphasizes the impact of early relationships on a
child's emotional and social development.
6. Socialization - Socialization involves the process through which children learn societal norms, values, and
behaviors. Child psychologists examine how children acquire cultural and social knowledge, develop a sense of
morality, and learn to interact with others.
7. Family Dynamics - The family environment plays a crucial role in child development. Child psychologists explore
how family structures, parenting styles, and familial relationships influence a child's well-being and behavior.
8. Educational Psychology - Child psychologists contribute to educational settings by studying learning processes,
educational interventions, and the impact of various teaching methods on children's academic and social
development.
9. Behavioral Disorders and Interventions- Child psychologists work to identify and address behavioral and
emotional disorders in children. This includes conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, and autism spectrum
disorders. Interventions may involve counseling, therapy, or behavioral modification strategies.
10.Cross-Cultural Perspectives - Child psychologists consider the impact of cultural and environmental factors on
child development. They explore how cultural norms, values, and practices shape children's experiences and
influence their development.
Understanding child psychology is essential for parents, educators, clinicians, and policymakers to support the
healthy growth and well-being of children. It provides insights into the unique challenges and opportunities at each
stage of development and informs strategies for promoting positive outcomes in children's lives.

3.Explain newborn child.

An infant (from the Latin word infans, meaning "unable to speak" or "speechless").
A newborn is,an infant who is only hours, days, or up to one month old. The term applies to premature, full term,
and postmature infants; before birth, the term "fetus" is used. The term "infant" is typically applied to young
children under one year of age; however, definitions may vary and may include children up to two years of age
A newborn, often referred to as a neonate, is a baby who is in the first 28 days of life after birth. This is a critical
period of development during which the infant undergoes significant adjustments to life outside the womb. Here
are key aspects to consider when describing a newborn:
a. Physical Characteristics- Newborns typically have distinct physical characteristics, including soft and delicate skin,
a fontanel (soft spot) on the top of the head, and a variety of reflexes. They often have a unique smell and are
covered in vernix, a white, waxy substance that protected the skin in the womb.
b. Motor Skills and Reflexes - Newborns exhibit a range of primitive reflexes that are essential for survival and early
development. These reflexes include the rooting reflex (turning toward a touch on the cheek), sucking reflex, Moro
reflex (startle response), and grasp reflex.
c. Sensory Perception - Newborns are equipped with basic sensory abilities. While their vision is limited, they can
see contrasting patterns and respond to light. Hearing is well-developed, and they can recognize familiar voices.
Taste and smell are also functional, contributing to the baby's ability to breastfeed and form attachments.
d.Sleep Patterns - Newborns sleep a significant portion of the day, typically between 16 to 20 hours in short,
irregular intervals. Their sleep-wake cycle is not yet regulated, and they may wake frequently for feeding or other
needs.
e. Feeding - Newborns primarily feed on breast milk or formula. Breastfeeding provides not only essential nutrition
but also facilitates bonding between the infant and the caregiver. Babies have a natural rooting and sucking reflex to
aid in feeding.
f. Cognitive Abilities - While cognitive abilities are in their early stages, newborns demonstrate some basic cognitive
functions. They can recognize their mother's scent and voice, show preferences for certain stimuli, and respond to
familiar faces.
g. Social and Emotional Development - Newborns are responsive to human faces and voices. They may engage in
eye contact and respond to soothing sounds. While they are not yet capable of complex emotions, they can
express basic needs through crying and physical cues.
h.Growth and Development - In the first month, newborns typically gain some weight and experience physical
growth. Healthcare professionals monitor their development to ensure they are meeting key milestones.
i. Umbilical Cord Care - In the first few weeks, the umbilical cord stump, a remnant from the prenatal connection
to the placenta, dries up and eventually falls off. Caregivers need to keep the area clean to prevent infection.
j. Medical Assessments - Newborns undergo routine medical assessments, including a newborn screening test for
various genetic and metabolic disorders. They also receive vaccinations as recommended by healthcare providers.

It's important to note that individual newborns may vary in their development, and healthcare professionals closely
monitor their progress during this critical period. Responsive caregiving, meeting basic needs, and creating a
nurturing environment are essential for a newborn's well-being and development.

4.What is motor development.

You might have observed that as the child grows physically, his/her ability to manipulate the environment also
shows rapid growth.
Motor development refers to the development of control over body movements. You might have seen that a child
in the beginning is unable to sit, by the age of 5-6 months s/he sits with the help of some support and finally can sit
without any support. The child’s capacity to sit, stand, walk, hold an object, eat, write, climb stairs, run, etc. are
included in motor development.
Motor development can be classified under two heads
(i) gross motor development i.e. skills involving movement of the larger muscles like running, jumping, hopping,
cycling etc. and
(ii) fine motor development : movement fingers, waist and eye-hand coordination. The development of the motor
skills is determined both by maturation and learning opportunities.
For instance, a child is maturationally ready to learn the skill of writing only by the age of about six to seven years.
Expecting a child to start writing at a younger age is likely to create a lot of pressure on his/her hand and arm
muscles which can be harmful. Therefore, children should start writing only at the primary stage. At the preparing
stage they should be given a great deal of opportunities through activities so as to use their finger muscles and eye-
hand co-ordination for developing adequate control of finger movements.

5.Explain sensory and motor development.

Sensory development refers to the process by which an individual's sensory systems, including sight, hearing,
touch, taste, and smell, mature and become more refined over time.
Motor development involves the progression of physical abilities and the acquisition of motor skills, encompassing
both gross motor skills (large muscle movements) and fine motor skills (small, precise movements).
“Sensory” and “sensory-perceptual” are used to refer to responses to basic sensations and perceptions, including
touch, taste, sight, hearing, and smell. Because much of the research is based on parental reports or natural
observation, the characterization of these behaviors as sensory-perceptual is based on inference, which, in the long
run, must be tested. There are fewer empirical studies about sensory and motor development in children with
autism(mental condition of early childhood) than studies of other aspects of development.

Unusual sensory-perceptual reactions appear to be manifest in some children with autism as early as the first year
of life (Baranek, 1999a; Dawson and Watling, 2000). These types of behaviors appear neither universal nor specific
to the disorder of autism, and there are no longitudinal studies systematically documenting developmental
trajectories of these behaviors from infancy through childhood. However, though not well understood, sensory
processing and motor patterns may be related to other aberrant behaviors and core features of the disorder; thus,
these patterns may have implications for early diagnosis and intervention.

6.Roles of social worker in developmental psychology .

Role of social worker
▪Social workers need to have a good understanding of child development in order to recognise normative patterns
of development and be alert to issues of concern.
▪Social workers need to communicate with other professionals to gain a holistic picture of the child’s
developmental progress over time.
▪There are number of theoretical approaches to understanding child development. These theories underpin many
child and family interventions that promote positive child development.
▪The quality of inter-parental relationships and parenting practices are important factors in children’s development.
Parental problems such as domestic violence, substance misuse and mental ill-health can have an impact on all
aspects of children’s development.
▪Contemporary research highlights effective targets for intervention and prevention programmes aimed at
remedying negative family influences on development.
UNIT-2
1. Describe the concept of adolsence and its characterstics.
Adolescence is the most crucial and significant period of human life. It is the period which begins at the end of
childhood and ends at the beginning of adulthood.
The word ‘Adolescence’ comes from a Latin word ‘Adolescere’ which mean ‘to grow up’ (Crow and Crow 1955).
This period runs between childhood and adulthood and is sometimes called the period of teenage. Adolescence is
referred to as teenage years, youth and puberty. Adolescence is the transitional period between childhood and
maturity occurring roughly between ages 10 and 20.
Jean Peaget defines adolescence, “the age of great ideals and the beginning of theories as well as the time of
simple adaptation to reality.” (Chauhan 1993)

CHARACTERISTICS OF ADOLESCENCE :
Adolescence constitutes numerically an important segment of the population (a little more than one fifth of the
total population). The health and well being of the future generation depends on the health and well-being of
adolescent as behavioural patterns acquired during this period tend to last throughout adult life.
Characteristics
Rapid Growth and Biological Changes-Adolescents have many physical and emotional changes during this time.
Boys experience growth spurts, voice changes, and enlarging testicles. Girls experience the development of breasts
and the start of their menstrual cycles.
Appearance Consciousness-Adolescents start to pay attention to their appearance and spend more time preparing
themselves for the day than before. How others see them starts to become very important to their inner identity.
Sexual Attraction-Adolescents start to notice others and desire to have romantic relationships. The ability to make
decisions and recognize their inner desires and preferences takes place during adolescence.
Cognitive Development-Psychologist, Jean Piaget, identified adolescence as a time of rapid cognitive growth and
development. Boys and girls both develop the ability to think abstractly and make reasonable decisions.
Career Consciousness-The maturity of making logical connections about life and a future career takes place during
adolescence. Boys and girls start understanding preferences they have about a career and what they want to do
with their adult lives.
Emotional Conditions-Hyperthyroidism is common in adolescence. Hyperthyroidism is the excessive production of
the thyroid gland. This can make the adolescent impatient, short-tempered, and rash. They have the cognitive
ability to make sound decisions but lack the patience and rationale to do so.
Financial interest

2.What is the developmental task during adolescence.

DEVELOPMENTAL TASKS DURING ADOLESCENCE
These are called the developmental tasks. Let us list them.
(1) The first most important task is accepting one’s physique or body and using it effectively
(2) Achieving new and more mature relationships with age-mates of both sexes.
(3) Achieving a masculine or feminine social sex role, i.e., ability to become a responsible male or female adult
member of society.
(4) Achieving emotional independence from parents and other adults.
(5) Achieving a set of values, i.e., an ideology.
(6) Preparing for a career.
(7) Prepare for marriage and family life.
3.Explain problem of adolescence.
During adolescence, physical changes take place very fast. Development takes place in other areas as well.
Adolescence is a complex and challenging stage of life marked by physical, emotional, and social changes.
Adolescents face a range of problems and issues that can impact their well-being and development. Here are some
common problems faced by adolescents:
(1) Identity Formation:Adolescents are in the process of forming their identities, exploring their values, beliefs, and
roles in society. This exploration can lead to identity crises and internal conflicts.
(2) Body Image and Self-Esteem: Physical changes during adolescence can impact self-esteem and body image.
Adolescents may experience concerns about their appearance, leading to body dissatisfaction and a susceptibility to
eating disorders.
(3) Peer Pressure: Pressure from peers to conform to certain behaviors, attitudes, and social norms can be intense.
Adolescents may face challenges in resisting negative peer influences, such as substance abuse or risky behaviors.
(4) Academic Pressure:
Academic expectations and the pressure to perform well in school can be stressful for adolescents. Balancing
academic demands with extracurricular activities and social life can contribute to anxiety and burnout.
(5) Social problems: They do not like to participate in social and family functions. Adolescents hesitate in the
company of opposite sex for the fear of being ridiculed and judged.
(6) Family Conflict: Adolescents often seek greater independence, which can lead to conflicts with parents and
family members. Communication breakdowns, disagreements over rules, and issues of autonomy may arise.
(7) Teenage pregnancy: In India early marriages are common, therefore sexual activity starts at an early age for
most of the women. Do you know what is the legal age of marriage for boys and girls in India? For boys it is 21 years
and for girls it is 18 years. Marriage before this age is illegal.
(8 Bullying and Cyberbullying: Bullying, both in-person and online (cyberbullying), is a significant problem for
adolescents. It can lead to emotional distress, social isolation, and, in severe cases, long-term psychological
effects.)
(9) Technology Addiction: Excessive use of digital devices and social media can contribute to technology addiction
among adolescents. This can impact sleep, physical activity, and overall well-being.

4.Explain roles of social workers in adolescence.

i. Social workers provide counseling and emotional support to adolescents dealing with a wide range of issues,
including identity formation, self-esteem, peer relationships, family conflicts, and mental health concerns.
ii. Social workers conduct individual and group therapy sessions to address emotional and behavioral challenges.
iii. Social workers play a vital role in preventing and addressing substance abuse among adolescents.
iv. Social workers collaborate with schools to address academic challenges, behavioral issues, and social integration.
v. Social workers work with families to address conflicts, communication breakdowns, and parenting challenges.
vi. Social workers assist adolescents in transitioning to adulthood by providing guidance on career planning,
education, and independent living skills.
vii. Social workers play a role in preventing exploitation, abuse, and neglect of adolescents.
viii. Social workers take into account the cultural background of adolescents, recognizing the importance of cultural
competence in providing effective and sensitive interventions.
4. What are adolescents interests and types

UNIT-3
1.Explain meaning and characteristics of early adulthood.
Early adulthood is generally considered to span from approximately ages 18 to 40, and it is characterized by
significant physical, cognitive, and socio-emotional development. Individuals in early adulthood experience a range
of life changes, make important life decisions, and establish a sense of identity and independence. Here are some
key characteristics of early adulthood:
Characteristics of early adulthood
It is settling down age.
It is a reproductive age.
It is problem age.
It is an age of social isolation.
It is a time of commitments.
It is the time of value changes.
It is a creative age.
It is a identity exploration age
It is age for formation of intimate realionships
It is time for educational and career exploration
It is peak of health and fitness
It is age to take on financial responsibility
Cognitive abilities continue to mature
It is age of self reflection and goal setting
It is age to build and maintain social networks
It is influenced by cultural and social expectations

2.Explain developmental task in early adulthood.

Developmental Tasks of Early Adulthood
Early adulthood can be a very busy time of life. Havighurst (1972) describes some of the developmental tasks of
young adults. These include
▪Achieving autonomy: trying to establish oneself as an independent person with a life of one’s own
▪Establishing identity: more firmly establishing likes, dislikes, preferences, and philosophies
▪Developing emotional stability: becoming more stable emotionally which is considered a sign of maturing
▪Establishing a career: deciding on and pursuing a career or at least an initial career direction
and pursuing an education
▪Finding intimacy: forming first close, long-term relationships
▪Becoming part of a group or community: young adults may, for the first time, become involved with various groups
in the community. They may begin voting or volunteering to be part of civic organizations (scouts, church groups,
etc.). This is especially true for those who participate in organizations as parents.
▪Establishing a residence and learning how to manage a household: learning how to budget
and keep a home maintained.
▪Becoming a parent and rearing children: learning how to manage a household with
children. Making marital adjustments and learning to parent.

3Change in interest and types of interest in early adulthood.

Changes in interest in early adulthood
Changes in early adulthood.
Changes in economic status.
Changes in life pattern.
Changes in values.
Sex role changes.
Changes from single to married status.
Changes due to the role of a parent.
Changes in preferences.
Changes in cultural and environmental pressures.
Types of interest in early adulthood
a. Personal interest
b. Career Interests:
c. Social and Relationship Interests:
d. Travel and Exploration:
e.Financial interests

4.Explain social participation and problem of early adulthood .

Social participation is defined as a person's involvement in activities that provide interaction with others in the
society or the community.
Type of social participation, being an immediate outcome of the social experiences of an individual, is expressed in
two independent dimensions – moratorium orientation and transitive orientation.
a.Social problems: Adulthood is the time when most of us encounter death for the first time, marriage, divorce,
second families, and career changes and so on. As such, there are many challenges to be met.
b. Parenting : Parenting may or may not form part of adulthood. Those that do have children often report
improved relationships once the children have left home provided that they remain in contact with the children.
Those that do not have children tend to spend more time involved in companionate activities with one another.
c.Divorce: Holmes and Rahe (1967) drew up a chart of the most stressful life events giving each a score from zero to
100, with marriage being assigned an arbitrary value of 50. Divorce was number two on the list with a score of 73
following death of marriage partner at 100. It was suggested that a high score (200-300) in one year could lead to
physical problems the following year.
d. Trauma & depression: Depression has been shown to be a stage of grief and bereavement and often returns at
anniversaries and special occasions such as Christmas. Other reasons for the onset of depression include a negative
self re-evaluation in mid-life, the realisation that some of one’s life goals are not going to be met, divorce and
redundancy and so on.
e. Impact of relationship on health: It has been shown that couples tend to take more care of their health than do
single adults of the same age.Dietary practices and food choices are related to wellness and affect health, fitness,
weight management, and the prevention of chronic diseases such as osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases, cancer,
and diabetes.
f. Intimacy vs isolation: According to Erikson, this conflict is at its most influential in the early twenties and has
usually been resolved by later adulthood. The individual who resolves this conflict will go on to develop positive
open relationships (despite set-backs) rather than retreat into isolation.
g.Stress: As a person moves into adulthood, they may experience stress for the first time, or have increased
stress on them, due to the demands of daily life. Leading research from around the world has concluded
that 70% to 90% of adults visit primary care physicians for stress-related problems.

5.Roles of social worker in early adulthood

a. Educational and Career Guidance: Assisting individuals in exploring career options, identifying educational
pathways, and making informed decisions about their professional development.
b. Relationships and Family Dynamics: Offering support and counseling on forming and maintaining healthy
relationships
c. Mental Health and Well-being: Providing mental health support for issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, and
identity exploration.
d. Financial Literacy and Management: Educating individuals on budgeting, financial planning, debt management,
and building a foundation for financial stability.
e. Housing and Independence: Supporting the transition to independent living by offering guidance on finding
suitable housing, managing household responsibilities
f. Health and Wellness: Facilitating access to healthcare services and promoting health and wellness behaviors.
g. Educational and Vocational Training: Assisting individuals in accessing educational opportunities, vocational
training, and skill-building programs.
h. Community Integration: Assisting in the development of social skills and community integration to foster a sense
of belonging.

UNIT-5
1.Explain old age
Old age refers to ages nearing or surpassing the expectancy of human beings, and is thus the end of human life
cycle.
Types of changes in old age.
Physical- In late adulthood, external physical changes include changes in the skin (wrinkling, loss of elasticity), loss of
subcutaneous fat, thinning of the hair, and changes in general posture due to the loss of collagen between the
spinal vertebrae (Cavanaugh, 1997; Whitbourne, 2001). There are also many internal changes, less apparent to the
onlooker but important to the functioning of the aging individual. These include changes to the cardiovascular
system and loss of cardiac muscle strength, decline in muscle mass and reductions in the efficiency of the
respiratory, digestive and urinary systems (Whitbourne, 2001). Older adults tend to go to sleep earlier but may find
it harder to sleep through the night without awakening
Psychological -Theorists such as Erikson and Erikson (1997) and Levinson (1978) regarded late adulthood as another
major stage of adult development. Erikson and Erikson again saw the individual as facing a conflict between
integrity and despair. They maintained that as people realise they are coming towards the end of their life, they
reminisce about their past and review how they feel about themselves. Have I met life’s challenges and
successfully achieved goals that I value. Have I contributed to the wellbeing of those I care about? Or have I failed to
realise my potential. Have I wasted time in pointless work or futile relationships. Have I been a burden to others?
Erikson and Erikson believed that individuals who arrive at a predominantly positive view that is regarding their
life,(as integrated and successful) are reported to experience a more contented late adulthood
Social Changes-Relationsship status with others :As in all other parts of the lifespan, relationships are important to
the older person’s adjustment (Johnson, 2001). For some people, marital relationship may become more
rewarding during old age. Other social roles such as grand-parenting or great-grandparenting are also enjoyed by
many older people, and allow them to feel that they contribute to their family and to a new generation. Sibling
relationships often become important as by this stage, our most long-lasting relationships are usually those with
our brothers and sisters. And the many positive benefits of friendships remain at least as important in the later
years as they are earlier in the lifespan.

3.What are the problems in old age

Old age often comes with a range of challenges and issues, both physical and psychosocial. The specific problems
individuals face can vary based on factors such as health, socioeconomic status, and support systems. Here are some
common problems associated with old age:
i. Health Issues: Chronic diseases, cognitive decline, Reduced mobilit
ii.Financial Challenges: Limited income, Economic insecurity
iii.Social isolation and loneliness: Loss of loved ones, decreased social oppurtunities
iv.Mental Health Concerns: Depression & Anxiety, Grief and bereavement
v.Housing and Living arrangements: Housing insecurity, Long term care
vi. Elder abuse: Physical, emotional or financial abuse
vii. Access to healthcare: healthcare disparities and medical expenses
viii. Technology and digital exclusion :Limites technology literacy
Ix. End of life planning : Decision of end of life acre, living wills and healthcare proxies can be emotionally difficult ot
address but essential

4.Role of social worker in helping old age.

Social worker plays important role in working with older age people in many aways.
i.Social worker work with older people in acute hospital or rehabilitation services, in public residential facilities , in
local authorities , in community units, in psychiatry of old age, adult learning services , where there are defined
teams and supervision structures.
ii. Social workers are also employed in primary care settings , or psychiatry of old age and there are a number of
community care posts.
iii. Providing support in navigating long-term care options and understanding the associated financial
considerations.
iv. Recognizing signs of elder abuse and intervening to protect older individuals from physical, emotional, or
financial harm.
v. Coordinating with healthcare professionals and other service providers to ensure integrated and holistic care for
older individuals.
vi. Identifying and connecting elderly individuals with relevant community resources, such as healthcare services,
support groups, and recreational activities.
vii. Providing counseling services to help older individuals cope with the emotional challenges that may arise due to
aging, loss, or changes in health.
viii. Conducting comprehensive assessments of the older person's physical, emotional, and social needs.

EXTRA
Stages of development
That a developmental stage has been successfully passed is indicated by the child mastering the developmental
tasks of the particular period of development. Often, special milestones mark children’s accomplishments, such as
walking in infancy and entering school in early childhood, and these milestones can help mark children’s movement
inside and between developmental stages. Individuals pass various stages throughout their life. There are
systematic progressions in a certain order through a series of phases. Step by step they move closer to some form of
adult status. This movement can be seen as involving changes in intellectual and physical powers (example, changes
in intelligence, expertise and ability to reason) and the impact of life events and experiences).
The main developmental periods of a human being are:
1. Prenatal: starts at conception and ends at birth. It has three stages:
germinal stage; embryonic stage and fetal stage.
2. Infancy or Toddlerhood: starts at birth and continues until 2 years.
3. Early chidlhood
ildhood: starts from 2 years until 6 years of age.
4. Middle and late childhood: starts at 6 years and continues till the onset of
puberty.
5. Adolescence: begins with the onset of puberty until 18 years.
6. Emerging adulthood: starts around 18 years until 25 years (psited by
Jeffrey Arnet in 200).
7. Early adulthood: starts around 25 years until around 45 years.
8. Middle adulthood: starts around 45 years until 65 years.
9. Late adulthood: starts at 65 years onward.