So you think you want a career in … Developmental Psychology
Developmental Psychology studies changes in thought and behavior that occur during the human life cycle. Main goals of developmental psychology are (1) to describe age changes as accurately as possible e.g., to obtain a profile of the typical child or adult at various ages for physical, cognitive, and psychosocial domains; and (2) to explain the process of change, i.e. to account for the age changes. The cornerstone of developmental psychology is the developmental point of view; i.e. in order to understand present behavior, we must understand the prior development of the person.
Developmental psychologists study the physiological, cognitive, and social development that takes place throughout life. Some specialize in behavior during infancy, childhood, and adolescence, or changes that occur during maturity or old age. They may also study developmental disabilities and their effects. Increasingly, research is developing ways to help elderly people stay as independent as possible.
What are the best resources to learn more about this area?
Often the best career information can be found by consulting the various professional societies such as the Society for Research in Adult Development, Developmental Psychology, American Psychological Association, Division 7; Adult Development and Aging, American Psychological Association, Division 20; Society for Research in Child Development, and the Jean Piaget Society. There are also graduate programs in Clinical and Applied Developmental Psychology. These sites will give information on membership, special interest groups, the annual convention, publications, job placement, chapter locations, and a directory of graduate training programs. (See the Interesting Internet Sites)
Will I need to get a degree beyond my bachelors?
There are job opportunities at BA, MA, and Ph.D. levels. The higher your degree, the greater the opportunities and responsibilities. Individuals at the B.A. level might consider careers in the mental health/social services area. They could be working as a child protection worker, be a residential youth counselor, a social service director, a day care center supervisor, or a family service worker. Individuals at the M.A. or M.S. level can be found in many of the institutions that deal with youth or the aged. They can be head of agencies, counselors, or mental health service providers. A doctorate is necessary for employment above the assistant or technical level. Many Developmental Psychologists are employed by colleges and universities, and typically occupy teaching positions. Most developmental research labs are connected with hospitals or homes for the aged.
What types of employment would I be qualified for?
Careers related to Developmental Psychology are available in the following settings: infant and preschool stimulation programs, with recreational, educational, and health programs for children and older adults, residential parent education programs, hospital child life programs and hospices, research positions.
With a Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology you could be teaching and doing research at a university or college. There will certainly be growing concerns in dealing with issues brought on by the *baby boom* generation as they enter old age. You could studying the effects of the internet on young children or be involved in curricular changes that take into account the developmental needs of children and adolescents.
What courses should I take while at Bloomsburg University to prepare me for this career field?
Should I take a minor or a concentration? Child Psychology (48:211), Adolescent Psychology (48:212), and Adulthood and Aging (48:311). Independent Research and Practicum courses may be also useful.
Within the Psychology Department, who is most knowledgeable about this area?
Dr. Astor-Stetson, Dr. Leitzel, Dr. Mason, Dr. Redfern, Dr. Waggoner, Dr. Duncan