Thoroughly discuss the physical, cognitive and psychosocial aspects of this stage. Include Erikson’s Freud’s & Piaget’s theories on the developments for the chosen stage. Discuss behaviors, risks, learning and intelligence for the stage.

QUESTION

Psychology Research Project

You are required to write a research paper with a minimum of 3 full pages, not counting cover page or reference page. This paper must be written in APA Format.

There are two parts to this project.

Part 1: is an outline with the references listed.

Part 2: is the 750 – 1,000 word paper in APA format.. Word count does not include the cover and reference pages.

Research Paper Topics

Choose ONE development stage from the list below.

Infancy

Early childhood

Middle childhood

Adolescence

Early adulthood

Middle adulthood

Late adulthood

Thoroughly discuss the physical, cognitive and psychosocial aspects of this stage. Include Erikson’s Freud’s & Piaget’s theories on the developments for the chosen stage. Discuss behaviors, risks, learning and intelligence for the stage.

REQUIREMENTS

Research your topic citing a minimum of 3 professional sources per paper. The textbook can be used but does not count toward the three sources. All sources must be from research (no websites) within the last 5 years. These MUST be professional sources, no BLOG’s. Wikipedia is NOT a valid source! Each source has to be cited in APA format.

Check out www.CitationMachine.net (Links to an external site.), and http://owl.english.purdue.edu (Links to an external site.)for questions and answers on APA format. Use APA format for in text referencing. Microsoft Word will do APA formatting for in text and Works cited page for you BUT THIS IS NOT CORRECT!!!

Paper Requirements:

Page count–750-1,000 word minimum (does not include cover or reference pages)
Introduction- previews key topics discussed in paper, defined thesis statement, tell why the topic is important to the reader.
Conclusion– summarizes the entire paper and provides closure
Sources– minimum of 3 professional sources, cited in APA format
APA Format Mechanics:

Margins– 1 inch – double spaced – 12 pt Times New Roman font
Paragraphs– each paragraph has a minimum of 5 sentences
Text- Entire document is written in past tense
Indented– first word of each new paragraph is indented 5 spaces
In Text references- referencing after every 5 sentences in a paragraph
NO Direct Quotes– rephrase all research into your own words
Contractions – Did not use contractions
Personal pronouns– DO NOT use: my, me, we, I, our, you, your, etc.
Grammar– proper grammar, spelling and punctuation is used
References:

Reference page– every work cited in the paper is referenced and every reference on the reference page has been cited at least once in the body. The title References appears centered on the page, sources are listed in alphabetical order by author’s last name, the first line is not indented but subsequent lines are indented 5 spaces and single spaced. Double space between sources.
Citations– proper APA format for the in text citation of sources used.
Paraphrased– You have rephrased your sources into your own words and cited your work in APA format correctly. Do not cut and paste long sections of source material.
Text should be referenced after every 5 sentences if from the same source.

ANSWER

Introduction

The development stage of adolescence is a critical period in human growth and development, marked by significant physical, cognitive, and psychosocial changes. Understanding the intricate interplay between these aspects is essential for comprehending the behaviors, risks, learning, and intelligence exhibited during this stage. This paper aims to thoroughly explore the physical, cognitive, and psychosocial dimensions of adolescence, drawing insights from Erikson’s, Freud’s, and Piaget’s theories on development. By examining these theories and their implications, this paper seeks to shed light on the factors influencing adolescent development and its long-term outcomes.

Physical Development in Adolescence

Adolescence is characterized by rapid physical changes as individuals transition from childhood to adulthood (Mcleod, 2023). According to Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development, this stage is marked by the crisis of identity versus role confusion, during which individuals strive to establish a sense of self and personal identity. Freud’s psychosexual theory emphasizes the role of the genital stage in physical development during adolescence, while Piaget’s cognitive development theory suggests that adolescents reach the formal operational stage, enabling abstract reasoning and hypothetical thinking.

Behaviors and characteristics associated with physical development in adolescence include growth spurts, changes in body composition, sexual maturation, and the development of secondary sexual characteristics. However, these physical changes can also bring challenges and risks, such as body image concerns, eating disorders, and engagement in risky behaviors.

Cognitive Development in Adolescence

During adolescence, cognitive abilities undergo significant refinement and expansion. Erikson’s theory highlights the development of a sense of identity as a crucial aspect of cognitive development in this stage. Freud’s theory emphasizes the role of the ego in navigating cognitive challenges, while Piaget’s theory suggests that adolescents reach the formal operational stage, enabling them to engage in abstract thinking and hypothetical reasoning.

Adolescents demonstrate behaviors and characteristics such as increased introspection, idealism, and exploration of different identities and value systems (Lumen Learning, n.d.). Learning processes become more complex, and the development of metacognitive skills allows for self-regulation and critical thinking. However, cognitive challenges in adolescence, such as egocentrism and the influence of peer pressure, can impact decision-making and risk assessment.

Psychosocial Development in Adolescence

Psychosocial development in adolescence involves the establishment of identity and the negotiation of social roles and relationships. Erikson’s theory identifies the crisis of identity versus role confusion as the central challenge of this stage (MSEd, 2022). Freud’s theory highlights the development of personality and the resolution of the Oedipus and Electra complexes, while Piaget’s theory emphasizes the importance of social interactions in shaping social cognition.

Adolescents exhibit behaviors and characteristics such as identity exploration, peer influence, and the formation of intimate relationships. Risks and vulnerabilities in psychosocial development during this stage include identity diffusion, identity foreclosure, and susceptibility to negative peer influences. The challenges of establishing a coherent sense of self and navigating social expectations contribute to the psychosocial complexities of adolescence.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the physical, cognitive, and psychosocial aspects of adolescence interact in a dynamic and influential manner, shaping behaviors, risks, learning, and intelligence. Erikson’s, Freud’s, and Piaget’s theories provide valuable frameworks for understanding and explaining the developmental processes that occur during this stage. By recognizing the unique challenges and opportunities associated with adolescence, individuals and society can support healthy development and mitigate risks. Understanding the multidimensional nature of adolescence enhances our ability to foster positive outcomes and empower adolescents to navigate this critical stage of life successfully.

References

Lumen Learning. (n.d.). Cognitive Development during Adolescence | Lifespan Development. https://courses.lumenlearning.com/wm-lifespandevelopment/chapter/cognitive-development-during-adolescence/ 

Mcleod, S., PhD. (2023). Erik Erikson’s Stages of Psychosocial Development. Simply Psychology. https://www.simplypsychology.org/erik-erikson.html 

MSEd, K. C. (2022). Identity vs. Role Confusion in Psychosocial Development. Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/identity-versus-confusion-2795735