Psychology of Adolescence

(2.5,3 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

Physical, emotion and social development of the typical adolescent. The difference between boys and girls, and the social contexts in which these changes occur -- home, school. Focus on the conflicts which most adolescents encounter during their development, be it with physical self-image, peer pressure, or self-identity. Textbook: Santrock, J. (2204) Adolescencia (novena edicion) McGraw Hill, Spain When taught at Dublin, Ireland: PSY 20020 Child and Adolescent Development at UCD; During childhood and adolescence human development is taking place at a phenomenal pace, with children learning many of the skills that are crucial to their current and future emotional well being, relationships and cognitive functioning. This module explores the complex biological, psychological and cultural factors that influence this developmental process. The module introduces and critiques the major theories of developmental psychology that underpin understanding of this developmental process. Lectures span all aspects of child development from birth through adolescence pointing to important methodological issues and gaps in our current understanding. When taught in Rome: This course examines how individual differences and environmental circumstances influence psychological and life outcomes in adolescence. Focusing on the biological, cognitive, and social changes experienced as individuals move from early to late adolescence, the course explores how the social contexts of family, peers, and schools affect the developmental processes. Students will also analyze other factors which influence adolescent psychology, such as culture, biology, cognitive development and sexuality, and discuss individual and environmental factors causing development to go awry in cases of substance abuse, conduct disorders/delinquency, and eating disorders. Satisfies "Developmental Area" core course requirement for Psychological Science majors. SUMMARY OF COURSE CONTENT: Sample topics include the biological, cognitive, social, and emotional changes that occur from middle childhood through adolescence. We will also address the influence of family, peer groups, educational settings and media on developmental changes involved in adolescence.