Development in childhood, adolescence and young adulthood (8ACF055)

Development in childhood, adolescence and young adulthood (8ACF055)

Level ~ Graduate Diploma
Availability ~ Teaching Period 1
Type ~ Child & Youth

Units recommended to complete prior: Attachment development and promoting mental health across the lifespan (8ALK004)

This unit aims to enhance an understanding of developmental psychopathology and the ability to work effectively in child and youth mental health settings. Students will examine what is often referred to as “normal development” across the stages of infancy, childhood, adolescence and young adulthood. The unit invites students to explore relevant developmental stages with a particular focus on social and emotional maturation, including the development of friendships and sexual identity. Interventions for supporting healthy development are introduced and students are invited to examine current research in the area of bullying including cyberbullying.

For Term dates, see the Academic Calendar.


Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the unit, students will be able to:

  1. Examine the concept of “normal development” in childhood, adolescence and young adulthood; and
  2. Identify interventions for supporting healthy social and emotional development for children, adolescents and young adults.

Weekly Schedule
Week 1 Infant development (birth-2 years)
Week 2 Child development (3-11 years)
Week 3 Adolescent development (12-17 years)
Week 4 Young adulthood (18-24 years)
Week 5 Friendships, bullying and sexual identity