Freud and Erikson are two important theorists within the field of developmental science. In this discussion, you will demonstrate a basic understanding of Freud and Erikson's ideas about development and then briefly outline an experiment.
By successfully completing this discussion activity, you will demonstrate Module Outcome 3: Describe and apply the main characteristics of at least two theoretical perspectives of development, and Module Outcome 4: Design an experiment to test a developmental science hypothesis.
This discussion assignment has three threads; please be sure to complete all three.
Part 1. In Module 1.2 of your webtext, Freud's psychosexual theory is reviewed. Read about the theory in your text and watch this optional video if you need assistance understanding it: Sigmund Freuds Theory of Psychosexual Stages of Development (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uowhCklNAio&index=3&list=PL6LXsiDw28tRzyVRB1O715b9yXXwnv1Kg) [Video file, 03:04 mins]
Now, what do you think? Specifically thinking about Freud's perspective, justify the importance of the first 6 years. Explain your ideas using terms from the text, and support your writing with at least one scholarly article. Please review the webpage, How do I find peer-reviewed articles?, from the Excelsior College library if you need assisting finding peer-reviewed articles.
Part 2. Module 1.2 of your webtext also reviews classical and operant conditioning. List at least one example of classical conditioning in your own life, and explain how systematic desensitization could be used to help a child overcome anxiety.
Next, think of times when an intended punishment did not stop your behavior. Tell us the story of one of these instances, and write about what happened. What would a better (more effective) plan have been to change the behavior?
If you would like to view some course material that illustrates some of these principles to help with your discussion assignment, please watch the following optional videos:
- Baby Albert Experiments (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FMnhyGozLyE) [Video file, 03:27 mins]
- The Difference Between Classical and Operant Conditioning (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H6LEcM0E0io) [Video file, 04:12 mins]
Part 3. Finally, Module 1.3 of your webtext reviews research methods. You are a researcher. Design an experimental study related to human development to demonstrate your understanding of experimental design. In doing so, briefly (one or two sentences for each item) address the following:
a. What is your research problem or question?
b. What are your variables? Be sure to identify the independent variable and the dependent variable. How are the variables operationally defined?
c. What is your hypothesis?
d. What major developmental design are you using? Note whether you are incorporating longitudinal, cross-sectional, cross-sequential, or cross-cultural methods.
e. Who are your population? How did you draw your sample? Will you have an experimental and control group? If so, how are subjects assigned to each group?
f. What data gathering strategies and/or "treatment" will you use?
g. Briefly outline, diagram, or explain your research procedure.
h. What do you think your results will be?
i. How did you minimize bias in your study?