Applying Theory

Plagerism FREE

Due Sunday by 8pm Eastern

Knowing what the theories say is interesting; having the competence to understand when and how to apply them is essential. The purpose of this assignment is to give you the opportunity to demonstrate knowledge of theory through application.

Instructions

Write a short paper (three pages) in which you explain the meaning and logic of a theory in human development, and apply the theory appropriately to a particular instance of human development or behavior in a culture or ethnic group different from your own.

1. Explain a theory:
   
   • Select one of the following human development theories presented in your course readings in Unit 1.
     • Erikson's psychosocial stages of development.
     • Piaget's cognitive stages of development.
     • Bronfenbrenner's ecological stages of development.
     • Behavioral theory of development.
     • Sociocultural theory of development.
     • Humanistic theory of development.
   • Describe what the theory attempts to explain (situations in which it applies).
   • List the most important assumptions it makes, using core concepts of the theory.
   • Summarize what the theory says, explaining the logic of the theory and providing examples to clarify the meaning.
2. Identify at least three scholarly resources in the Capella library that address some aspect or application of the theory you have chosen. Review these resources to identify potential additional insights about the theory you chose that will help you explain and apply the theory.
3. Apply the theory to a particular instance involving a cultural or ethnic background different from your own: 
   
   • Describe a specific situation—a real-life scenario—in which the theory could be appropriately applied.
   • Provide a brief explanation of how the theory would predict or explain the behavior of the people involved. Explain any limitations of the theory in this situation. For example, what aspects of the behavior does it not adequately explain?

Other Requirements

• Written communication: Written communication is free of grammatical, punctuation, and mechanical errors that detract from the overall message.
• Number of resources: Three academic, peer-reviewed resources.
• Formatting: Resources and citations are formatted according to APA (6th edition) style and formatting in accordance with the APA requirements for this course.
• Length of paper: Three pages of text, typed double-spaced; the final page count does not include the title page.
• Font and font size: Times New Roman, 12 point.