Development And Child Psychology is a branch of psychology concerned with the emotional and social development of a child from birth to adolescence. It involves both:
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Knowledge and analysis of processes of psychological development that children experience
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Treatment of different kinds of problems that can occur during development
During sessions, development and child psychologists do not just restrict themselves to biological, genetic, or personal factors, but adopt a holistic approach and take into account all other influences when helping children.
It is the interaction of different factors that determine a child's psychology and development. These include social, cultural, and socioeconomic factors. A child's family and friends are bound to have an influence on the way he learns, thinks, and develops over time. Similarly, the culture of the child may teach a set of norms, values and beliefs that effect his/her social and emotional development. Moreover socioeconomic factors like the household income, education, and class status contribute significantly to the way a child develops.
Master's Degree In Developmental And Child Psychology
The requirements for admissions into a master's degree program may differ for each school. You will usually be required to have completed an undergraduate degree in psychology or related discipline.
Program Curriculum:
In addition to providing specialized knowledge, the program is designed to provide you with the knowledge of core areas of psychology including cognitive psychology, social psychology, biological approaches, and research methods. Although the names and range of courses differ depending on the institute you are enrolled at, the following is a list of example courses:
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Research Methods in Psychology
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Advanced Developmental Psychology
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Ethical Practice in Psychology
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Childhood, Society, and Social Policy
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Cognitive and Development Psychology
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Children and the Law
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Professional Development and Placement in Psychology
To give you a hands-on experience, some schools may require you to complete a clinical component or undertake some level of research. Others provide opportunities for you to get involved in seminars, workshops, and national or international meetings.
Program Outcomes
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Learn to develop intervention, assessment, and consultation strategies that focus on the unique psychological needs of children
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Become proficient in the application of psychological theories for the assessment and prevention of psychological, psychophysiological, and behavioral disorders in children
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Design and conduct research to advance psychological knowledge and the well-being of people, organizations, and communities
Online Degrees
Schools are now starting to offer online degree programs in this field for students to enroll. This type of program allows students to study from the comfort and convenience of their home. Students will be able to hold down their current job and study according to their own schedule.
Employment Outlook
People with a degree in development and child psychology typically work in schools, nonprofits, and hospitals as school psychologists, general psychologists, and clinicians. According to figures released by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, in May 2012, psychologists earned a mean annual wage of $86,380 and a mean hourly wage of $41.53.