Contrasting Developmental Theories

Developmental theories are being revisited in Unit 9. Thus far, you have learned about a number of theories, including how these theories help us understand physical, cognitive, and social-emotional changes from birth through adolescence. Theories you have considered this term include Piaget’s cognitive-developmental theory, Vygotsky’s sociocultural theory, Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory, Erikson’s psychosocial theory, dynamic systems theory, and Bowlby’s ethological theory of attachment, to name a few. However, no single developmental theory has yet explained all of the complexities of development. In this assignment, you will continue exploring the topic of developmental theories by completing a contrast of two theories of your choice and thinking critically about what an ideal developmental theory would look like.

For this assignment, choose two theories that have been covered in this class that you believe describe child and adolescent development well. Please use the Unit 9 Assignment Template to contrast the theories by filling out the table.

The theories will be contrasted on the following points:

Main characteristics of theory.
Domain of focus (physical, cognitive, social-emotional, or a combination of several domains)
Considers development to be continuous, discontinuous, or both.
Stance on influence of genetics and/or the environment
Example of theory concept applied to child development.
Two strengths of theory
Two weaknesses of theory
Does the theory fully explain physical, cognitive, and social-emotional changes from infancy through adolescence? (Yes/No and briefly explain your answer)

Following the theories contrast, please answer the following critical thinking questions on the ideal developmental theory:

If you could design the ideal developmental theory to explain development from infancy through adolescence, either by combining existing developmental theories or by creating a new, all-encompassing developmental theory, what would your theory look like? In describing your ideal developmental theory, consider the domain/s of focus, the continuity and/or discontinuity of development, the role of genetics, environment, culture, and personal experiences in shaping individuals.
What are the potential benefits of such a comprehensive developmental theory?
What are the potential challenges of such a comprehensive developmental theory?

Please review and follow the assignment requirements in the next tab titled Assignment Details.