Child Participation in Development

Paper Summary:

The author of this paper examines professional literature describing the child development process and, specifically, the part the child plays in his development and from what age this interaction begins. The author reviews a number of works and contends most researchers feel that the participation of the child in development is primarily through observing and then repeating behaviors seen in his or her environment. However, the author states that children with emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD) have a large range of issues that impact them when they are tasked with participating in their own development and often require assistance to learn social skills. The author continues and discusses other aspects of child development and the impact on the child.

From the Paper:

"The research indicates that child participation in development begins after birth. This is because development is a long-term process that impacts cognitive functioning and involved learning, as well as application of that learning to life. After birth the child may focus on his or her hands and how they can be manipulated to function in the best interests of the child. The child will explore how the body function, how sound attracts attention and how crying prompts parents to address his or her needs. This is all development that is applied throughout life. Additionally, the child then concentrates on the interaction between the parents and learns, among other things, what his or her gender role should be and how he or she can function effectively within a culture. In order to be accepted within that culture the child participates in development by observing and then applying cultural beliefs and behaviors to life, shaping the foundation of childhood beliefs and increasing development."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Berk, L. (2001). Childhood development. Boston: Allyn and Bacon.
• Crockett, J., and Kaufman, J. (1999). The least restrictive environment. Mahwah: Erlbaum.
• Flavell, J. (1963). Developmental psychology of Jean Piaget. Princeton: Van Nostrand.
• Keller, T., Bost, N., Lock, E., and Marcenko, M. (2005). Factors associated with participation of children with mental health problems in structures youth development programs. Journal of Emotional and Behavioral Disorders. 13(3): 141-165.
• Lazaro, C. and Cohen, B. (2001). Cross-cultural contact in counseling training. Journal of Multicultural Counseling and Development. 29(1): 41-63.

More papers on Child Participation in Development:

• Research Paper # 30291 : "Preschool Participation"
• Essay # 46942 : "Child Labor"
• Article Review # 26817 : "Language Problems in Children with Learning Disabilities"

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