COURSE DESCRIPTION

This advanced course surveys development across the life span. Emphasis will be on key issues of human development from adolescence to old age. Significant theories of personality, physical, cognitive, emotional, moral, social, and spiritual development will be studied with special emphasis on key theorists. The aim is to assist the student in conceptualizing human development as a framework for understanding the human condition and providing effective interventions. The course will assist the Christian minister and practitioner with deeper understanding of the people to whom they minister. COURSE OBJECTIVES At the conclusion of this course the student will be able to: 1. Identify major physical developmental changes of adolescence, and relate these to psychological changes. 2. Compare and contrast Piaget’s views about concrete and formal operational thought. 3. Explain the concepts of adolescent egocentrism, imaginary audience, and personal fable. 4. Explain Marcia’s four identity statuses, and indicate specific life events that would channel personality toward each of the four identity statuses