Human Development Theories Flashcards
7 cards from real LMSW practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Human Development Theories flashcards as text
Carol Gilligan critiqued Kohlberg's moral development theory primarily because:
Answer: It was based on male subjects and undervalued care-based moral reasoning
Gilligan argued that Kohlberg's framework, derived from male samples, privileged justice over the ethic of care more characteristic of female moral reasoning.
In Bowlby's attachment theory, 'secure base' behavior refers to a child who:
Answer: Uses the caregiver as a foundation to safely explore the environment
A securely attached child uses the caregiver as a safe base from which to explore, returning when stressed and departing again when reassured.
According to Erikson's psychosocial theory, failure to resolve the 'Initiative vs. Guilt' stage may result in:
Answer: Excessive self-criticism and inhibition of creativity
Unresolved guilt in this stage (ages 3–6) leads to over-restriction of initiative, causing the child to inhibit spontaneous activity and creativity.
Which theorist introduced the concept of 'transitional objects' as a healthy bridge between early dependence and autonomy?
Answer: D.W. Winnicott
Winnicott described transitional objects (e.g., a blanket or stuffed animal) as the infant's first 'not-me' possession, supporting the transition from complete dependence to independence.
According to Bandura's social learning theory, 'self-efficacy' is best defined as:
Answer: An individual's belief in their capacity to execute behaviors to produce outcomes
Self-efficacy refers to an individual's judgment about their capability to perform specific tasks, which influences motivation and behavior.
A 75-year-old client who volunteers, mentors young professionals, and expresses satisfaction with life's meaning is best described by Erikson as demonstrating:
Answer: Integrity
Ego integrity, the positive resolution of Erikson's final stage (65+), involves accepting one's life with a sense of meaning, dignity, and wisdom.
The concept of 'goodness of fit' in temperament theory refers to:
Answer: The match between a child's temperamental style and environmental demands
Goodness of fit describes the degree to which a child's temperament matches the expectations and demands of their environment, influencing developmental outcomes.