Normative Development
In the latter part of the 19th century, psychology began to separate from its previous philosophical standing, emerging more as a scientific discipline. Abstract laws were devised, and objective and quantitative measurements of isolated variables analysed. Theories of development emerged and have continued throughout history, providing organization, and “a lens through which researchers can interpret and explain any number of specific facts or observations” (Sigelman & Rider, 2012, p. 32). In postulating what is seen as ‘normative’ development, these theories provide a model or map from which science and society are largely influenced.
Normative development implies an individual will grow, experience and behave in a similar manner to the general population throughout life (Sigelman & Rider, 2012). It infers a degree of commonality between humans, and of a comparable progression through a lifespan. Given all individuals experience life differently, the concept of normative development is arguable. In this paper, the author will examine a number of developmental theories substantiating the claim that normative development can exist. It will be argued however, that this claim is supported best when seen through the integration of a number of models, rather than one model in isolation. Norms should also be applied over a range rather than set circumstance, and seen as evolving, rather than unchanging.
Prior to examining what may be considered normative development, it is first necessary to examine the notion of ‘normal’. Definitions of normal are diverse, but commonly include the notion of conforming to typical standards or regulations (Merriam-Webster, n.d.). That being so, what is typical? And who determines standards or regulations? In reality, normal is a social construct that fits into a time frame; there is no definitive answer to what is normal, or even abnormal. Sigelman & Rider (2012) highlight the difficulties in drawing a line
Normative development implies an individual will grow, experience and behave in a similar manner to the general population throughout life (Sigelman & Rider, 2012). It infers a degree of commonality between humans, and of a comparable progression through a lifespan. Given all individuals experience life differently, the concept of normative development is arguable. In this paper, the author will examine a number of developmental theories substantiating the claim that normative development can exist. It will be argued however, that this claim is supported best when seen through the integration of a number of models, rather than one model in isolation. Norms should also be applied over a range rather than set circumstance, and seen as evolving, rather than unchanging.
Prior to examining what may be considered normative development, it is first necessary to examine the notion of ‘normal’. Definitions of normal are diverse, but commonly include the notion of conforming to typical standards or regulations (Merriam-Webster, n.d.). That being so, what is typical? And who determines standards or regulations? In reality, normal is a social construct that fits into a time frame; there is no definitive answer to what is normal, or even abnormal. Sigelman & Rider (2012) highlight the difficulties in drawing a line
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