Questions Answered

Answers should be at least 200-300 words and reflect critical thought. Whenever possible, please try to relate the course content to real-world applications from your work experience. Be sure to cite all sources as well.

1. Regarding Schaie's theory of cognitive development, describe the five stages of how people use information.

2. What benefits do you see in comparing adults in stages, not ages? 

3. Identify the cognitive and socio-emotional changes that occur in adulthood.

4. In our society, you are an adult at 18. Do you feel that 18-year olds are cognitively, physically, and emotionally ready to make adult decisions and choices? Explain.

5. In exploring these stages of cognitive development -- good job synthesizing Schaie's Theory -- which stage(s) can be maximized within the therapeutic alliance that translates into growth? The presentation of the stages could be considered as stand-alone experiences -- if so, what is the potential influence on therapeutic goal setting? Are these fixed stages with boundaries that are not crossed as people develop? Is there a means by which acquisition in one stage can be manifested across stages?

6. Our personal insights are valuable, of course; however, how might your opinion that 18 is an age at which people cannot make informed decisions influence your work with adolescents?

As an example, in my state's child welfare system, our department of children and family services (DCFS) will not intervene in a family on behalf of an 18 year old. Attempting to garner assistance even for a 17 year old is trying and determining whether to intervene on a child's behalf at 17, the birthday is given and, if 18 occurs within 6 months, the child is again considered an "emancipated minor." This suggests, that at least within child protective services, 18 year olds are presumed to be competent to act on their own behalf.

Thoughts?