Child Development: Psychological Theories

Developmental psychology is the scientific study of how and why humans grow, change and adapt during their lives. We begin this course by explaining the psychological developmental processes that occur in early childhood. We then analyse various theories of psychological development put forward by famous psychologists like Sigmund Freud and Erik Erikson. This course answers questions like ‘what are Freud's five psychosexual stages of development?’ and demonstrates the practical benefits of learning about such theories.

We then describe the role of psychological development in children and explain why it is important to understand the stages of psychological development to help children move through them successfully. We go over parent-oriented concepts designed to help children as they develop. The course then links various practical activities or assignments to the theories we already covered to help you answer questions like ‘what are Erik Erikson's stages of psychosocial development?’ and ‘what is the result of failing to develop in those stages?’.

This course outlines the concepts you need to master to help children develop psychologically. We show you how to confidently use these theories and ideas to assist preschoolers and school-age children with their mental development. We describe the processes of psychological development and provide the skills required to understand them. We take you from the early stages of childhood development to their successful conclusion. Sign up to understand these important psychological theories and learn how to apply them in practical ways to help the children in your life to grow mentally. This course draws on developmental theory to help you provide better childcare as you nurture young minds and guide them towards maturity.