Learning Objectives

• Describe the domains of human development, key debates in developmental psychology and relevance of developmental psychology to well-being
• Detail the major divisions of the brain, their components and functions
• Describe the normal phases of brain development
• Explain sensitive and critical periods for brain development and developmental trajectories
• Identify common neurodevelopmental disorders, risk factors and common difficulties
• Describe and critique psychological models of human development including Piaget’s stages of cognitive development; Vygotsky’s sociocultural theory; Bronfenbrenner's Ecological Systems Theory; Maslow’s hierarchy of needs; and Erikson’s stages of psychosocial development
• Using case studies identify risk factors, utilize formulation framework, appropriate diagnosis and treatment plan

Developmental Psychology

• what are the 3 domains of human development?
• what are some key debates in developmental psychology?
• what is the importance of developmental psychology to health and wellbeing?

Brain Development

• what are the 3 divisions of the brain?
• what are the structures of the limbic system?
• what are the phases of neurodevelopment?
• what is neuroplasticity?

Sensitive & Critical Periods

• what is a sensitive period?