Lucy wants to study changes in cognitive skills, moral reasoning, and social behavior across the lifespan. Lucy should specialize in ________ psychology.
Responses
- social
- personality
- cognitive
- developmental
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: Developmental Psychology
Developmental psychology is the field of psychology that focuses on studying changes in cognitive skills, moral reasoning, and social behavior across the lifespan. This specialization examines how people grow, develop, and change from infancy through old age. Since Lucy is interested in understanding these transformations over time, developmental psychology is the most suitable choice for her.
One of the core aspects of developmental psychology is cognitive development, which involves studying how thinking, memory, problem-solving, and decision-making skills evolve over time. Jean Piaget, a prominent psychologist in this field, proposed a theory outlining distinct stages of cognitive development, from sensorimotor skills in infancy to abstract thinking in adolescence and adulthood.
Moral reasoning, another focus area, involves understanding how individuals differentiate between right and wrong as they grow. Lawrence Kohlberg’s theory of moral development suggests that moral reasoning progresses through stages, from basic obedience to social contract principles and ethical principles that guide moral behavior.
Social behavior also changes throughout life. Developmental psychologists examine how relationships, communication skills, and social roles evolve. For instance, Erik Erikson’s psychosocial theory outlines eight stages of development, each presenting a unique conflict that shapes personality and social interactions, such as trust versus mistrust in infancy or identity versus role confusion in adolescence.
By studying developmental psychology, Lucy can explore the biological, psychological, and environmental influences on human growth. Her research could be applied in education, healthcare, counseling, and social policy to improve well-being across all life stages.