Overview of a Developmental Theory Essay

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Developmental Theory

Developmental theories provide a systematic means of thinking regarding the growth and development of individuals from childhood to old age. These theories demonstrate the various stages and changes that people undergo as they develop. One of the most commonly used developmental theories is Piaget’s Cognitive Developmental Theory. It was proposed by theorist Jean Piaget who is regarded as one of the most influential personalities in the field of cognitive development. Through this theory, Piaget is concerned with the development of an individual’s thought processes and how they shape his/her understanding and interactions with the world.

Piaget’s Cognitive Development Theory helped to transform how people think about child development on the premise that children think differently in comparison to adults. This theory introduces four stages of a child’s cognitive development (Cherry par, 27). The first stage is the sensorimotor stage, which is the period between the child’s birth to age two. During this period, the child’s understanding of the world is restricted to his/her sensory perceptions and motor activities or responses that limit behaviors.

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The second stage is the preoperational stage, which occurs between ages 2 and 6 and characterized by learning to use language. This is followed by the concrete operational stage that takes place between ages 7 and 11. Unlike the previous stage, children begin to develop an improved understanding of mental operations. Through this understanding, they begin to think logically regarding concrete events though they struggle to understand hypothetical or abstract concepts.

The final stage of cognitive development introduced by Piaget’s Cognitive Developmental Theory is the formal operational stage that occurs between age 12 and adulthood. During this period, individuals develop the capability to think about hypothetical and abstract concepts. Some of the skills that emerge during this period include deductive reasoning, logical thought, and systematic planning.

Reference Cherry, Kendra. "Child Development Theories and Examples." Verywell Mind. Dotdash Publishing Family, 13 Mar. 2019. Web. 26 Apr. 2019.

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