Name:_______________________________________________________________________Date:____________________
Child Development Theories
SIGMUND FREUD: Psycho-Sexual Theory of Emotional Social Development
Freud, an Austrian psychologist in the late 1800’s, focused on understanding children by looking at
the sexual challenges that occur at each state of development. He believed control of the human
body was the focal point of emotional/social development.
He theorized about 5 stages in childhood. Complete the chart below:
http://www.simplypsychology.org/psychosexual.html
STAGE
AGE
DESCRIPTION
1. Critical Thinking - How would Freud's theory explain why you are neat and independent, while your
sister is messy and dependent on others?
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2. What do you think about this theory? Does it “feel” right?
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3. What are the strengths and weaknesses of this theory?
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Name:_______________________________________________________________________Date:____________________
Child Development Theories
ABRAHAM MASLOW: Pyramid of Human Needs
Abraham H. is considered an influential psychologist of the 20th century.
 He developed the theory of human needs forming a “pyramid”. People behave the way they
do to meet those needs.
 Fill in the diagram below and briefly describe each of the stages.
Check out this link to learn more about Maslow: http://www.mrdowling.com/603-maslow.html
7. Is self-actualization the same as “fame and fortune”? Why or why not?
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8. What might a teenager do to meet his/her need for love and belonging?
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9. Do you agree with Maslow’s statement: “…most people want more than they have.” As one
desire is satisfied, another pops up in its place.”
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Name:_______________________________________________________________________Date:____________________
Child Development Theories
ERIK ERIKSON: Theory of Social Development
Erik Erickson was a German-born child development expert, who emigrated to the United States in
the 1930’s.
 Erikson suggests that social/emotional development occurs in 8 stages- four of which deal
with childhood
 Erik Erikson is also the psychologist to develop the idea of identify crisis, during the
adolescent years.
Click on this link to complete the chart: http://www.learning-theories.com/eriksons-stagesof-development.html
STAGE
CONFLICT
AGE
DESCRIPTION
1st
2nd
3rd
4th
If you follow Erikson’s theory of social development…
10. How would you teach an infant to trust you?
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11. How would you handle potty training accidents in your 2 year old
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12. You are fixing your 4 year old’s bike. How can you help that child develop a sense of
industry or competency?
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13. You are teaching a group of 6 year olds. How can you help those children develop a sense of
industry?
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Name:_______________________________________________________________________Date:____________________
Child Development Theories
DISCUSSION QUESTION
1. Based on your reading, which of the three theories would you agree with most?
Why?
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