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PSYC 210
THEORIES AND WORLDVIEW ASSIGNMENT INSTRUCTIONS
OVERVIEW
Purpose
To write an essay in which you compare your worldview with one developmental theory
discussed in our course materials.
Background
Every person who has ever lived bases his or her life on a set of basic assumptions. These
assumptions form the foundation of his or her worldview. One’s worldview influences and is
evident in his or her work.
INSTRUCTIONS
Tasks
Write a brief* essay in which you identify important aspects of your worldview, and then discuss
ways in which your worldview is compatible with at least one developmental theory.
1) In your first paragraph explain why it is important to consider worldview when
studying developmental theories (include at least 3–5 sentences).
2) In your second paragraph briefly describe key concepts and features of one
developmental theory discussed in our textbook (include at least 3–5 sentences). Be
sure to identify the main theorist, the name of the theory and at least one defining
characteristic of the theory.
3) In your third paragraph identify ways in which your worldview is compatible with the
theory you have described.
4) In your final paragraph, summarize and reflect on how what you learned about
worldview and its relationship to theories will be used in future coursework (include
at least 3–5 sentences).
*Your essay must include at least 500, but no more than 800 words. Please edit your work to
stay within these parameters.
Requirements
1. Identify your sources! Current APA guidelines require that a citation be used to
identify any/all sources of information that are not considered common knowledge.
2. Do not include direct quotes; instead, paraphrase information about your chosen
theory. Remember that your source must be identified with a citation even if you
rewrite the information in your own words.
3. Your Theories and Worldview Assignment will include the following:
Considering worldview when studying developmental theories is important as it helps provide context for how individuals perceive and make sense of human growth and behavior. A person’s worldview is shaped by their experiences and influences how they view various theories.
One prominent developmental theory is Erik Erikson’s psychosocial stages of development. Erikson (1950) proposed that social development occurs through eight stages across the lifespan, where individuals must resolve a crisis between opposing forces (e.g. trust vs mistrust in infancy). My worldview aligns with some key aspects of Erikson’s theory. Like Erikson, I believe humans progress through distinct stages as they age, each presenting new challenges and opportunities for growth. We both see social relationships and experiences as playing a crucial role in shaping one’s identity and sense of self.
Additionally, my worldview is informed by a holistic perspective where the interplay between biological, psychological and social factors jointly influence development. This aligns with Erikson’s biopsychosocial approach which considers genetic, environmental and cultural influences. I also share Erikson’s view that optimal development occurs through healthy resolution of crises at each stage. Overall, Erikson’s theory provides a framework that resonates with my view of human growth as a lifelong process of adapting to changing demands through social-emotional learning and relationship building.
In future coursework, reflecting on compatibility between theories and one’s own perspective will enhance critical thinking. It fosters deeper understanding by relating abstract concepts to personal experience and worldviews. This assignment has helped me recognize both similarities and differences in how I and prominent theorists view human development. I will aim to thoughtfully consider various theoretical lenses, while also bringing my own worldview into discussions and assignments, to gain a well-rounded knowledge of the field.
Erikson, E. H. (1950). Childhood and society. New York: Norton.
Berk, L. E. (2018). Development through the lifespan (7th ed.). Boston: Pearson.
Santrock, J. W. (2018). Life-span development (17th ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill Education.
