The Individual
Factors that contribute to an individual’s development
Factor Definition Example of positive effect on development Example of negative effect on development
Self-esteem How a person values themselves. The concept we hold of ourselves begins to develop from the day we are born and can fluctuate during our lifetime. People with positive or high self-esteem value themselves as worthy contributors to society-likely to be able to form healthy relationships with others. Being highly negative about their own abilities, or having a poor body image due to comparing themselves to airbrushed photographs of models in magazines.
Self-confidence Belief in yourself and your abilities. Having self-confidence gives us the ability to face changes. A young adult who has experienced a happy childhood and adolescence surrounded by people who have been socially and emotionally supportive has consequently developed a high level of self-confidence. They may always rely on others and take the 'back seat'.
Satisfaction of needs For an individual to thrive and reach their potential, it is essential that all their basic human needs are met. Socialise with others:
• Engage confidently in group situations
• Work in teams
• Develop language skills as a child
• Interact cooperatively with others
• Share their property rather than being possessive
• Resolve conflict effectively The more money we have the less happy we become - people that are wealthy seem to have to maintain a certain lifestyle, e.g. designer clothes.
Heredity Describes certain traits that are passed down to each of us genetically from our parents. Abilities might also be genetically linked. A person might look more like their mother but have their fathers personality type. Huntington's disease is degenerative neurological disease that is passed on genetically. Breakdown, the situation would have an immense impact on every aspect of development. Would effect a child