By successfully completing this assignment, you will demonstrate your proficiency in the following course competencies and grading criteria:
- Competency 2: Interpret human behaviors using theories of human lifespan development across developmental domains.
- Apply Gilligan’s and Kohlberg’s theory of moral development to a case study.
- Apply Perry’s theory of cognitive development to a case study.
- Apply Levinson’s season of life to a case study.
- Apply Erikson’s and Cohen’s theories of adult development and aging to a case study.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of a research study to explain human behavior.
- Interpret human behavior using knowledge of human development.
To demonstrate proficiency in the outlined competencies and grading criteria, I will provide an analysis of a case study using various theories of human lifespan development across developmental domains. Let’s consider a fictional case study involving a character named Sarah.
Case Study: Sarah
Background: Sarah is a 35-year-old woman who is struggling with her career and personal relationships. She works in a demanding corporate job and feels unfulfilled despite her professional success. She also feels disconnected from her partner and finds it challenging to balance her personal and professional life.
Application of Theories:
- Gilligan’s and Kohlberg’s Theory of Moral Development:
- Sarah’s current struggles may be analyzed through Gilligan’s and Kohlberg’s theories of moral development. Kohlberg’s stages suggest that individuals progress through stages of moral reasoning, from a focus on self-interest to a consideration of societal rules and principles. Gilligan extended this theory, proposing that women may prioritize care-based moral reasoning over justice-based reasoning. Sarah’s feelings of dissatisfaction may stem from a conflict between societal expectations (Kohlberg) and her own values related to care and connection (Gilligan).
- Perry’s Theory of Cognitive Development:
- Perry’s theory suggests that individuals progress from dualistic thinking, where they see the world in black and white terms, to more complex forms of thinking that acknowledge ambiguity and multiple perspectives. Sarah’s struggle with balancing her career and personal life may reflect a transition in her cognitive development. She may be moving from a dualistic view that prioritizes either work or personal life to a more nuanced understanding that allows for integration and balance.
- Levinson’s Seasons of Life:
- Levinson proposed that individuals experience distinct periods or “seasons” throughout adulthood, characterized by different tasks and challenges. Sarah, at 35, may be entering a period of “middle adulthood” characterized by a focus on career consolidation and personal relationships. Her struggles could be understood in the context of navigating the demands and transitions associated with this stage of life.
- Erikson’s and Cohen’s Theories of Adult Development and Aging:
- Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development suggests that individuals in middle adulthood grapple with the conflict of generativity versus stagnation. Generativity involves contributing to future generations and finding purpose beyond oneself. Sarah’s feelings of unfulfillment may stem from a lack of generativity, as she feels disconnected from her work and personal relationships.
- Cohen’s theory emphasizes the importance of societal attitudes and stereotypes in shaping experiences of aging. Sarah may be influenced by societal expectations of success and fulfillment by a certain age, leading to feelings of inadequacy or failure.
Evaluation of Research Study: To evaluate the effectiveness of a research study, we would need to assess its methodology, validity, and relevance to Sarah’s case. For instance, a study examining the impact of work-life balance interventions on job satisfaction and relationship quality among middle-aged adults could provide valuable insights into Sarah’s situation if it employs rigorous research methods and addresses similar demographic characteristics.
Interpretation of Human Behavior: In interpreting Sarah’s behavior, knowledge of human development theories helps to contextualize her experiences and struggles within broader developmental frameworks. By applying these theories, we gain a deeper understanding of the challenges she faces in her career and personal life and can suggest interventions or support strategies informed by developmental principles.
In conclusion, analyzing Sarah’s case through the lens of various developmental theories provides valuable insights into her struggles and potential pathways for support and intervention. This exercise demonstrates proficiency in interpreting human behavior using theories of human lifespan development across developmental domains.