PY7020 - Child and Adolescent Developmental Psychology (2026/27)
| Module specification | Module approved to run in 2026/27 | ||||||||
| Module title | Child and Adolescent Developmental Psychology | ||||||||
| Module level | Masters (07) | ||||||||
| Credit rating for module | 20 | ||||||||
| School | School of Social Sciences and Professions | ||||||||
| Total study hours | 200 | ||||||||
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| Running in 2026/27(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change) | No instances running in the year |
Module summary
This module will allow you to develop your understanding of how children’s thinking and behaviour change during childhood. It will allow you to examine the historical context of theory and research in this branch of psychology and the importance of cross-cultural research in developing universal theories of child development. You will develop a systematic understanding of theories of cognitive and social development and your ability to think critically about these theories within the context of empirical evidence. You will develop your skills in locating, evaluating, discussing, and accurately communicating information relating to the lecture topics, which are essential skills for further study and employment in different settings (e.g., child and adolescent mental health services; education; research). And understanding how children develop is crucial for any work with children e.g. in an educational or in a mental health context.
Prior learning requirements
N/A
Syllabus
The topics covered in this module will be drawn from significant areas of research in child developmental psychology and may include: classic and contemporary theories of child and adolescent development; development of language; development of theory of mind; development of memory; attachment and parenting; moral and emotional development; research methods and ethics in child psychology; development across cultures.
Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity
The learning objectives will be achieved through a combination of lectures, interactive workshops, seminars, supplementary guided web-based learning, and self-managed independent study. You will be encouraged to reflect on your learning throughout the module, particularly using formative feedback, and to take responsibility for identifying gaps in your learning.
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of this module, you will be able to:
1. describe and critically discuss key theories and models of child cognitive and social development in their historical and cultural contexts.
2. evaluate the research evidence that supports/contradicts our understanding of child development.
3. appreciate and critically discuss various aspects of child development, emphasising the importance of cross-cultural research and research ethics.