PSYC 2044 - Adolescent Development

Credits: 3
Hours/Week: Lecture 3
Course Description: Adolescent development is a field within Developmental Psychology, concerned with the psychological principles that apply to the study of adolescent development. The course includes an in-depth study of the physical, cognitive, and psychosocial changes that occur during the adolescent years. Course topics will include fundamental psychological concepts, research findings, and theories in adolescent development.

 
MnTC Goals
Goal 5, sub-competencies 1, 3 and 4 Goal 9, sub-competencies 1, 3 and 5

Prerequisite(s): ENGL 1020  with a grade of C or higher OR ENGL 1021  with a grade of C or higher.
Corequisite(s): None
Recommendation: PSYC 1020  

Major Content
 

1. Introduction to Adolescent Development
   1. Historical and contemporary perspective
   2. Theoretical perspective
   3. Scientific research methods
   4. Ethical issues in research
2. Biological Foundations
   1. Physical
   2. Puberty
   3. Health
3. Cognitive Development
   1. Brain growth and development
   2. Theories of cognitive devleopment
   3. Strengths and limitations of thinking
   4. Learning, attention, memory and executive function

4. Contexts of Development
   1. Families
   2. Peers
   3. Schools
   4. Culture
5. Social, Emotional, and Personality Development
   1. The Self and Identity
   2. Gender
   3. Sexuality
   4. Moral Development and Values
   5. Ethical and Civic Responsibility
   6. Achievement, Careers, and Work
6. Adolescent Problems and Resilience
   1. Problems
   2. Resilience
   3. Stress and Coping

1. describe the scientific research methods used to study adolescence.
2. explain the theoretical perspectives in adolescent development.
3. compare and contrast historical and contemporary perspectives of adolescence.
4. apply the concepts of ethics and values as they relate to adolescents’ self- and identity-development.  
5. apply ethical standards to contemporary adolescent issues.
6. apply theoretical perspectives to current issues in adolescent development. 
7. analyze the effects of the physical, cognitive, and psychosocial changes that characterize adolescent development
8. describe the different contexts within which adolescent development occurs. 

05. 03. Use and critique alternative explanatory systems or theories.

05. 04. Develop and communicate alternative explanations or solutions for contemporary social issues.
Theme Goals (MnTC Goals 7-10)
09. 01. Examine, articulate, and apply their own ethical views.

09. 03. Analyze and reflect on the ethical dimensions of legal, social, and scientific issues.

09. 05. Identify ways to exercise the rights and responsibilities of citizenship.

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