Most of us have been raised to believe that our parents play the most important role in our lives. And, traditionally,developmental psychologists (e.g., Freud, Erikson) have placed a great deal of emphasis on the impact of parents. But what if parents are not as important as previously thought?
More recent theory and research has challenged this assumption by suggesting that individual characteristics (e.g., temperament) and forces outside the family (e.g., peers) are more important in shaping development. How does this new information challenge your previously held beliefs?
To prepare for the Assignment:
Review your course text readings from previous weeks, paying particular attention to any research related to parent’s roles. Focus on content that addresses early attachment, parenting styles, and discipline.
After reviewing the academic information available, formulate your own opinion on this topic.
The Assignment (5–6 pages):
Summarize the research on the impact of temperament on development. This should include how it might shape our interactions with parents, peers, and in the school environment.
Summarize the research concerning the impact of parents. This should include the formation of secure/insecure attachments during infancy and the impact this may have on later development.
Summarize the impact of parenting styles and ongoing monitoring during middle childhood and adolescence on development.
Consider the arguments of Harris in Gladwell’s blog post, “Do Parents Matter?”
Consider the relative influence of all these factors in the prompt as you state your educated opinion of whether or not parents “matter.”
Requirements: 5 pages | .doc file
Answer preview
One of the factors that impact the child’s cognitive development is peers. Peer comprises the individuals of almost similar age or those of the same age group. Studies indicate that peer relationship offers a unique context in which a child learns various critical emotional skills like empathy cooperation and problem-solving strategies. Some peer activities such as early play and friendship help children create social skills, communication skills, language, problem-solving skills, and others. When a child can cooperate with his or her peers in group activities, he or she is able to share perspectives, ideas, and interests (Laninga‐Wijnen, Harakeh, Steglich, Dijkstra, Veenstra, & Vollebergh, 2017). Children interacting with their peers in different learning and recreational activities are more likely to develop creative, conflict resolution, and problem-solving skills. As a result, parents are encouraged to join different extracurricular activities and clubs to encounter new friends and diversify experiences. Peer relationship impacts the child emotional development. This interaction gives children an opportunity to bond and experience
