Developmental Theories Of Child Development

Developmental theories of child development are categorized as either stage theory or non-stage (continuous) theory. Both attempt to explain how each child is molded into the adult each will inevitably become. Stage theories propose that children make sudden shifts to different levels of behavior and perception. This way of thinking provides researchers with a set of guidelines as to how far children should be along in their development at different ages. It invokes a sense of “normality” and reassures people that their children are “on track.” It also serves as a way to identify if a child is behind where they should be in their development. Non-stage theorists propose that children’s’ development occurs more gradually. This idea of development