Class Psychology of Development II

This curricular unit's goal is for students to acquire knowledge in the field of developmental psychology with regard to the stages of development of adults and the elderly. Theoretical models, research methodologies, and specificities of human development processes in these age groups will be presented. This is an essential UC in the first cycle of training in Psychology, as it allows students to complement their knowledge about human development throughout the life cycle. Additionally, this content articulates with other areas of psychology, namely the clinical, educational, and social domains, which can be deepened in later study cycles.

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S1 Developmental life cycle perspective: principles, fundamentals, and propositions S2 Main theoretical models of life cycle development and research strategies 2.1. The Life-Span Perspective 2.2. Methodological considerations for the study of adult and elderly development. S3 Development and main tasks in adult life: 3.1 Young age development (emerging adult and young adult) 3.2 Development in adulthood (adult and middle age) 3.3 Development in old age (elderly and very old adults). S4 Domains of Development 4.1 Longevity, Health, and Functionality 4.2 Cognitive functions and intelligence 4.3 Interpersonal relationships, family, and social integration 4.4 Career, Leisure, and Retirement 4.5. End-of-life themes: understanding death, dying, and bereavement 4.6. Active Aging.

This course unit is organized into theoretical and practical components. Theoretical lectures combine expository moments with interactive discussion. Practical classes focus on the development of applied skills through the critical analysis of audiovisual content (films and documentaries), training in observation methodologies for adult and elderly development, and fieldwork. Additionally, they include group work presentations and discussions featuring peer and instructor feedback. Finally, students are encouraged to produce a critical reflection incorporating a self-assessment of their learning, engagement with tasks, and overall performance in the course.

Cavanaugh, J.C., & Blanchard-Fields, F. (2019). Adult development and aging (8.ªed.). Cengage Learning. Newman, B.M. & Newman, P.R. (2015). Development through life: A psychological approach (12ª ed.). Stamford, Cengage Learning.  Papalia, D., & Martorell, G. (2021). Experience Human Development (14.ª ed.). McGraw Hill. Whitbourne, S. K., & Whitbourne, S. B. (2020). Adult development and aging: Biopsychosocial perspectives (7.ª ed.). John Wiley & Sons.