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Comparing Theories in Human Development

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Can you compare three theoretical perspectives on human development? Include any similarities and differences between and among these theories. Which explain(s) development best and why, providing evidence. Explain relations to constructive developmental theory.

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This solution provides theoretical perspectives in human developmen focused on similarities and differences.

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(1) Compare three theoretical perspectives on human development. Include any similarities and differences between and among these theories

(a) Attachment Theory of Human Development

In his study of mothers and their interactions with their children, Bowlby (1973 as cited in Brandell (2010) proposed that children develop internal working models of interpersonal expectations that influence all of their later relationships. For example, an individual with warm, loving parents would have a secure attachment style. On the other hand, Mikulincer (1998a) posited that an individual with low self-esteem and who lacks interpersonal trust will have a fearful-avoidant attachment style. Further, attachment-anxiety denotes sensitivity to abandonment, fears of rejection, and links with other relational strategies. For instance, attachment-avoidance is characterized by a discomfort with closeness. According to Brandell, attachment is the driving force of development.

(b) Theory of Cognitive Development

Recent research has pointed to a strength in Piaget's theory of cognitive development in demonstrating that self-organizing genetic processes are associated with neural networks that are necessary for cognitive development (Brennan, 2002). For example, Piaget's (1953) theory of infant development sought to explain how children construct their knowledge. Piaget hypothesized that childhood development occurs in three stages: (a) sensorimotor stage ...

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