Overview: This paper will critically evaluate a controversial topic in the field of child development. The paper should include at least two informed opposing viewpoints on the topic. The paper must be based on empirical evidence and theory and not on personal opinion.
Topic: Students may choose to write about any of the topics listed at the end of this document.
Length and Format: Papers should be 5-7 pages (double-spaced, not including title page or references). The paper can be written in either MLA or APA style, whichever your course of study prefers. A good resource for appropriate formatting is listed below:
APA style: https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/560/1/
MLA style: https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/747/01/
References: The paper must include at least four scholarly sources (not including the textbook). "Scholarly" sources include journal articles (empirical studies or reviews of research) and books that review research (not including "pop psychology" books). Every attempt should be made to include recent research.
Helpful Hints
• Avoid the use of conversation English (i.e. just, only, even)
• Elevate word choice (kids=>children, things=>activities, get=>received)
• When making a statement about a child be sure to provide supporting evidence. For example, "Joe was a leader in the classroom which was evidenced by how he often was the one providing new ideas to his peer group".
• Psychological theories are not capitalized unless they are named for a person (i.e. Piaget's stages of development)
Approved Topics
• Discuss pros and cons of co-sleeping with an infant/toddler.
• Should gay/lesbian couples be allowed to adopt?
• Genetic Counseling/Testing
• Homeschool vs public/private school
• Should schools be responsible for limiting sugars etc to control obesity in childhood?
• Should school recess be kept or eliminated?
• Are video games detrimental or beneficial to children/adolescents?
• Should we teach abstinence or safe sex practices to adolescents?
• Is the use of technology among adolescents beneficial (i.e. long distance learning) or detrimental (i.e. cyber bullying)?
• Should age limits be lowered (under 13) for social media sites such as Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, etc?
• Is homework appropriate for children or at what age is it appropriate? How much homework is appropriate?
• Should cursive continue to be taught in our schools?
• Should high schools adjust start times to align with adolescents' physical need for sleep?
• Should children in middle childhood have access to cell/smart phones?
• Does the experience of divorce effect a child/adolescent?
• Discuss the pros and cons of standardized testing in our nation's schools.
• Discuss the vaccination controversy. Do parents have the right to choose not to have their child vaccinated? Do schools have a right to now allow unvaccinated students into their buildings?
• Should children in early or middle childhood be allowed to play sports with high rates of concussions? Are restrictions/rules for these sports protecting children's physical, cognitive, and/or social development?