Theories of Development

Theories of Development reviews different theories of child development from various theorists such as Piaget, Vygotsky, Erikson and Skinner. Each theory of child development presents a view of the how and the why of individual growth and change. Any such view, however, is inherently incomplete. The construct of the theory is influenced by the theorist's own life, the historical moment, and the unique traits of the particular culture.

Theories lasting through time and across cultures remain relevant to the larger society. As this tape shows, in human development we are eclectic, drawing from a wide range of expertise and insight.

Theories of Freud (psychosexual), Gesell (maturationist), Piaget (cognitive), Erikson (psychosocial), Skinner (behaviorist) and Vygotsky (socio-cutlural) represent this eclectic view of development. These theories can all be practically applied in guiding children in development, behavior and learning.

One underlying theme of theories from Gesell to Skinner is the debate on whether inheritance or environment determines outcomes. The concept of interactionism resolves this debate, but a wide diversity of research continues to add new insight.

Available As: Closed Captioned DVD
Produced By: Magna Systems, Inc.
Running Time: 27 minutes

This product may also be purchased as a continuing education course.

Each continuing education course consists of a multiple-choice test that accompanies the video or book. By purchasing this course and passing the test with a minimum score of 70%, you may earn 0.3 continuing education units or 3 clock hours.

Click here for more information about our CEU courses.
Click here to view our selection of CEU courses.