Psychologists formed several theories about childhood development. Each one took a different perspective on developmental stages and provided guidelines to assess a child’s developmental level compared to their age group. Bandura’s theory focused on observation and imitation of behaviors (Crain, 2011). Erikson’s theory expanded on Freud’s psychoanalytic theory and provided details of development that surpassed just satisfying physical desires (Crain, 2011). Piaget’s theory focused more specifically on the cognitive abilities of the child and the limitations of a younger child’s thoughts versus an adult’s thoughts on similar situations (Crain, 2011).
Bandura’s theory addressed gender roles and their influence on child development (Crain, 2011). It focused on how children participated in gender appropriate activities more than gender opposite activities (Crain, 2011). Gwyn exhibited behaviors that conformed to her gender role, such as sitting with other girls and coloring. Though Gwyn participated in some of the rougher play, she left it as soon as it became too rough. Bandura explained prosocial behavior as behaviors focused on cooperation and helping others (Crain, 2011). Gwyn’s father promoted this behavior by encouraging her to …show more content…
Gwyn showed initiative when she planned her moves to dodge the tagger during the game of tag. Younger children showed less ability to plan the best way to avoid capture. Erikson stressed culture’s ability to influence development and place different emphasis on particular stages (Crain, 2011). Gwyn expressed a characteristic of independence, by deciding her own activities. Gwyn’s parents also showed consistent care in the few moments where she required their direct attention. Erikson considered consistent care an important issue that all successful cultures address (Crain,