Lifespan Dev

Running Head: REFLECTION PAPER ANALYSIS 1

REFLECTION PAPER ANALYSIS 7

Reflection Paper Analysis

Reflection Paper Analysis

Theorists I Focused On

The theorist I focused mainly on was Lawrence Kohlberg (Granqvist & Nkara, 2017). The main reason why I found him interesting was because I was very keen on understanding his stages of moral development theory. I had struggled to understand how moral development happens, and I was eager to learn more about it. I have children to whom I like to add additional understanding about morality and spirituality. I was extra motivated to learn more about this theory to ensure that every one of my children adds spirituality correctly. I was also keen to learn more from him when I realized that his research was influenced by Jean Piaget, one of the leading figures in psychology (Granqvist & Nkara, 2017). I was also keen to learn about the many criticisms associated with his theory, particularly regarding gender bias. However, I still found the theory very applicable in my life.

I also found James Fowler's stages of Faith Development very impressive. As mentioned, I have children, and I want to ensure as they continue to mature, they will evolve in my faith (Schinkel & de Ruyter, 2017). I realize the difficulty I have in that endeavor, considering the state of the world we are currently living in. I appreciated learning about this theory (Granqvist & Nkara, 2017). I was delighted to discover how faith grows and how I can influence the growth of faith in my children. I am also a disciple of others, and this theory provided a knowledge base that I could rely on in this endeavor. Understanding James Fowler as a man helped me better grasp the theory.

I also found that I used Kohlberg's theory as a deconstructor, where I used it to unravel what had been learned concerning morality (Granqvist & Nkara, 2017). I then learned that I could use Fowler's theory as a constructor. I can use it to build a person's faith and help them grow in understanding and salvation in Christ (Schinkel & de Ruyter, 2017).

Domains I Focused on

I focused on three domains: moral development, faith development, and philosophy in theology. I focused on moral development to learn more about how individuals build their belief systems. I was keen to learn more about how someone adopts a belief system and makes it a central tenet to their thinking and its influence on their behavior (Granqvist & Nkara, 2017). I was keen on knowing how to utilize this to alter an individual's thinking and make them question their morals (Dykstra, 1982). I also wanted to learn more about how faith is developed and how it can be cultivated.

The main reason I wanted to learn about philosophy in theology stemmed from an encounter I had when evangelizing. I met a person who told me they did not believe in God but only in a higher power's existence. I then remembered the story of Paul and his encounter with the intellectuals at Areopagus who worshiped Unknown God and how Paul used this to preach the Gospel to them (Acts 17:16-34). Had Paul not understood philosophy and their way of thinking, he probably would not have been able to preach the Gospel to them as well as he did. As a minister and a partaker in the Kingdom Mandate, I found these three topics to be critical, and I was keen on researching them and learning more about them.

Questions on Development

The main question I had was the relation between the works of Lawrence Kohlberg and the works of James Fowler (Granqvist & Nkara, 2017). I wanted to find the commonalities between the two. I was also keen to discover the impact someone's faith had on their moral development. I meditated on these two questions because I was keen to know how to use them as part of the Kingdom mandate. I was keen to know how to use both theories to go out into the hedges and highways and preach Christ.

I was also keen to know the answers to these questions to understand what applied faith looks like. I once heard a quote that said while evidence is faith in things not seen, its presence is visible and should be seen in an individual's life (Granqvist & Nkara, 2017). This means a person's faith must be seen in how they walk with Christ. This means that their behavior should change, and their faith should impact their morality. 1 Thessalonians 2:13, Paul says, "And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word, but as it is, the word of God, which is indeed at work in you who believe." This shows that the Word must work inside the person. With this in mind, I was curious to see how the Word impacts an individual's morality (Schinkel & de Ruyter, 2017).

Tests and Trials I Observed

The main test and trial I observed and related to was the peer pressure someone faces as they develop their faith (Dykstra, 1982). I was talking to a young person struggling with her faith because she felt she was missing out on drinking and having sex before marriage. She felt these things were fun, and a hole was inside her because she was missing out. However, the truth was that she was feeling peer pressure due to her pursuit of her faith, which is counterculture to the existing faith. This led her to question her faith and the truth of what it means to have peace that surpasses all understanding (Granqvist & Nkara, 2017).

I also learned that another test is the test of conscience and how malleable morality truly is. I have seen good people react immorally in a moment of weakness or when they are in a challenging situation (Dykstra, 1982). For example, I have seen great men fall into affairs because they were in compromising situations. I have also seen people make immoral decisions because they were in situations where there was no good choice. These situations were made clear by how many tests people encounter in their growth in faith and morality.

Enhancing Flourishing

I believe enhancing flourishing in morality and faith stems from believing in Jesus. In John 15:4, Jesus says, "Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me." I would say that bearing fruit means flourishing. By abiding in Jesus, we can gain virtues that help us live morally. This is highlighted in Galatians 5:22-23, which says, "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things, there is no law." These fruits come when an individual abides in Jesus. They flourish because of it.

Flourishing in faith also comes in walking with Christ. James 4:8 says, "Come close to God, and God will come close to you." This means our faith is replenished and rewarded as we draw near God. This means our faith is strengthened as we draw near God and experience His goodness (Schinkel & de Ruyter, 2017). This is why it is vital to say Jesus is the enhancing factor in the walk of faith.

Application of Positive Psychology

Positive psychology is an area within psychology that centers its attention on examining positive emotions, personal strengths, overall well-being, and the optimal functioning of individuals (Granqvist & Nkara, 2017). The objective of this study is to ascertain the factors that lead to the attainment of a satisfying and purposeful existence, as well as to explore how persons can flourish. The findings of positive psychology research are consistent with the observations presented in the articles on faith and moral growth, particularly concerning the promotion of optimal human well-being. One of them is in resilience and coping (Schinkel & de Ruyter, 2017). Positive psychology provides excellent coping strategies for individuals in the face of challenges. The walk of moral and spiritual excellence is an arduous one. Positive psychology can be essential in this.

I also found positive psychology essential in identifying the heart's wants. The heart often struggles with faith and morality as it often wants things to happen in a way that brings it joy (Granqvist & Nkara, 2017). This is why pursuing good experiences is not a great approach in life. Positive psychology emphasizes positive encounters in life, which can signify what the heart wants. Positive psychology can be vital in determining the heart's desires and praying that the Lord helps me deal with them and accept His will.

Christ the Center

This portion of learning involved a lot of philosophy. However, I realized that man's wisdom is akin to what God considers foolishness. While its use is important, it should not be understated that the solution to the problem is Jesus. If the answers do not have Jesus as the center, they are useless and will do little to help individuals.

References

Bible, D. (1985).  The Bible. Chrysalis..

Dykstra, C. R. (1982). Theological table-talk: Transformation in faith and morals.  Theology Today,  39(1), 56-64.

Granqvist, P., & Nkara, F. (2017). Nature meets nurture in religious and spiritual development.  British Journal of Developmental Psychology,  35(1), 142-155.

Schinkel, A., & de Ruyter, D. J. (2017). Individual moral development and moral progress.  Ethical Theory and Moral Practice,  20, 121-136.

6.3 Discussion.Odyssey Plan

Getting Started

You were introduced to the Odyssey Plan in Workshop Two. An odyssey is a great adventure, and hopefully you took on developing your Odyssey Plan with this spirit in mind! In this workshop, you will submit your final Odyssey Plan, which should consist of three possible avenues for your future. However, your odyssey is never over! You are encouraged to regularly update your Odyssey Plan (every five years or so) or assess it to see if you have chosen a path that came out of the Odyssey Plan you will submit for this course.

Upon successful completion of this discussion, you will be able to:

· Discuss how your faith plays a role in accomplishing your goals.

Resources

· None

Background Information

You submitted a draft of your Odyssey Plan in Workshop Two. Although you might not consider your odyssey to be “over,” you will submit a completed Odyssey Plan that consists of three possible futures along with the resources you need, the resources you have, as well as all the other components of an Odyssey Plan provided to you in Workshop Two. In addition to posting your completed Odyssey Plan, you will engage in a discussion with your peers on their Odyssey Plans, reflecting on faith and revelations from working on the plan.

Instructions

1. Review the rubric to make sure you understand the criteria for earning your grade.

2. Navigate to the discussion topic and respond to the following prompts:

a. Submit the final version of your Odyssey Plan, having incorporated the feedback from your instructor from Workshop Two. (Submit your Odyssey Plan in the Discussion.)

b. Along with your plan, respond to the following prompts:

i. What was the biggest revelation for you as you created your plan?

ii. How will your faith play a role in accomplishing the goals you set forth?

6.1 Discussion. The Realizing

Getting Started

Why venture out of our ordinary world at all? Why leave the comfort of familiarity for discomfort, confusion, and even loneliness? Why push ourselves to become better fathers, mothers, teachers, partners? Why face challenges, fight the enemy, wage war on evil? Isn’t it all just “dust in the wind”? Isn’t it all temporary and in vain? There is one thing that lasts, one thing that lives on long after we are gone. It ripples around the world and plumbs the depths of time. Yes, there is one thing that is never done in vain: love. We are called to love.

Paul continues in his letter to the Corinthians, “If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.”

Upon successful completion of this discussion, you will be able to:

· Discuss what love means to you.

Resources

· The Bible

· Video: 6 Lifespan Devotional

Background Information

Think of your gifts and talents and all you bring to the world. What are those gifts and talents, and how have you used them to help others? How have you used them to help change the world for the better? Will your efforts last, or will they be fleeting and temporary? What does last? Is love the only thing that really lasts? Is love the only thing that is really important in life?

Instructions

1. Review the rubric to make sure you understand the criteria for earning your grade.

2. Listen to and watch  6 Lifespan Devotional . You can also review the  6 Lifespan Devotional Transcript .

3. Navigate to the discussion topic and respond to the following prompts:

a. What or who comes to mind when you think about love?

b. What do you do to show others you love them?

4. Your initial post is due by the end of the fourth day of the workshop.

5. Read and respond to at least one of your classmates’ posts, as well as all instructor follow-up questions directed to you, by the end of the workshop.

6. Your postings should also:

a. Be well developed by providing clear answers with evidence of critical thinking.

b. Add greater depth to the discussion by introducing new ideas.

6.2 Discussion. Predominant Stories of Death and Dying

Getting Started

When you ask people to what age they envision living, many respond with a number in their 60s or 70s. When asked why, many indicate their fear of cognitive decline and disorders and don’t want to live with those issues. However, the rate of cognitive disorders among the elderly is fairly small. You can see how this could be a common narrative about aging and the reason for some of the fears about death and dying. When you think about getting older and getting closer to the end of your life, what narratives or stories pop into your head? They are likely similar to common or popular narratives because American society has a rather negative viewpoint about the aging process and about death and dying. Is there a way to change these narratives? Should they be changed?

Upon successful completion of this discussion, you will be able to:

· Reframe the predominant narratives about death and dying in the United States.

Resources

· Textbook:  Human Development and Faith: Life-Cycle Stages of Body, Mind and Soul

· Article: A Profile of Death and Dying in America

Background Information

In this discussion, you will relay some common narratives that you are aware of regarding dying and death as an American citizen. You have been exposed to these narratives all your life, so you will have some immediate thoughts about the dying and death processes. After reflecting on those common narratives, you will revise them, integrating resources to assist you in rethinking the dying and death stages of life. Finally, you will discuss how human flourishing (eudaimonia) relates to dying and death. Enjoy discussing these different ways of thinking with your peers!

Instructions

1. Review the rubric to make sure you understand the criteria for earning your grade.

2. Read the following:

a. Chapter 14 in the eBook   Human Development and Faith: Life-Cycle Stages of Body, Mind, and Soul .

b. A Profile of Death and Dying in America

3. Navigate to the discussion topic and respond to the following prompts:

a. Discuss how you understand the predominant “stories” or narratives in the United States about dying and death.

b. Rewrite those stories based on the materials for the workshop (or other materials you locate).

c. How does human flourishing relate to dying and death?

4. Use the resources and other materials to support your answers.

5. Your initial post is due by the end of the fourth day of the workshop.

6. Read and respond to at least two of your classmates' postings, as well as instructor follow-up questions directed to you, by the end of the workshop.

7. Your postings should also:

a. Be well developed by providing clear answers with evidence of critical thinking.

b. Add greater depth to the discussion by introducing new ideas.

Running Head: REFLECTION PAPER ANALYSIS 1

REFLECTION PAPER ANALYSIS 7

Reflection Paper Analysis

Reflection Paper Analysis

Theorists I Focused On

The theorist I focused mainly on was Lawrence Kohlberg (Granqvist & Nkara, 2017). The main reason why I found him interesting was because I was very keen on understanding his stages of moral development theory. I had struggled to understand how moral development happens, and I was eager to learn more about it. I have children to whom I like to add additional understanding about morality and spirituality. I was extra motivated to learn more about this theory to ensure that every one of my children adds spirituality correctly. I was also keen to learn more from him when I realized that his research was influenced by Jean Piaget, one of the leading figures in psychology (Granqvist & Nkara, 2017). I was also keen to learn about the many criticisms associated with his theory, particularly regarding gender bias. However, I still found the theory very applicable in my life.

I also found James Fowler's stages of Faith Development very impressive. As mentioned, I have children, and I want to ensure as they continue to mature, they will evolve in my faith (Schinkel & de Ruyter, 2017). I realize the difficulty I have in that endeavor, considering the state of the world we are currently living in. I appreciated learning about this theory (Granqvist & Nkara, 2017). I was delighted to discover how faith grows and how I can influence the growth of faith in my children. I am also a disciple of others, and this theory provided a knowledge base that I could rely on in this endeavor. Understanding James Fowler as a man helped me better grasp the theory.

I also found that I used Kohlberg's theory as a deconstructor, where I used it to unravel what had been learned concerning morality (Granqvist & Nkara, 2017). I then learned that I could use Fowler's theory as a constructor. I can use it to build a person's faith and help them grow in understanding and salvation in Christ (Schinkel & de Ruyter, 2017).

Domains I Focused on

I focused on three domains: moral development, faith development, and philosophy in theology. I focused on moral development to learn more about how individuals build their belief systems. I was keen to learn more about how someone adopts a belief system and makes it a central tenet to their thinking and its influence on their behavior (Granqvist & Nkara, 2017). I was keen on knowing how to utilize this to alter an individual's thinking and make them question their morals (Dykstra, 1982). I also wanted to learn more about how faith is developed and how it can be cultivated.

The main reason I wanted to learn about philosophy in theology stemmed from an encounter I had when evangelizing. I met a person who told me they did not believe in God but only in a higher power's existence. I then remembered the story of Paul and his encounter with the intellectuals at Areopagus who worshiped Unknown God and how Paul used this to preach the Gospel to them (Acts 17:16-34). Had Paul not understood philosophy and their way of thinking, he probably would not have been able to preach the Gospel to them as well as he did. As a minister and a partaker in the Kingdom Mandate, I found these three topics to be critical, and I was keen on researching them and learning more about them.

Questions on Development

The main question I had was the relation between the works of Lawrence Kohlberg and the works of James Fowler (Granqvist & Nkara, 2017). I wanted to find the commonalities between the two. I was also keen to discover the impact someone's faith had on their moral development. I meditated on these two questions because I was keen to know how to use them as part of the Kingdom mandate. I was keen to know how to use both theories to go out into the hedges and highways and preach Christ.

I was also keen to know the answers to these questions to understand what applied faith looks like. I once heard a quote that said while evidence is faith in things not seen, its presence is visible and should be seen in an individual's life (Granqvist & Nkara, 2017). This means a person's faith must be seen in how they walk with Christ. This means that their behavior should change, and their faith should impact their morality. 1 Thessalonians 2:13, Paul says, "And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word, but as it is, the word of God, which is indeed at work in you who believe." This shows that the Word must work inside the person. With this in mind, I was curious to see how the Word impacts an individual's morality (Schinkel & de Ruyter, 2017).

Tests and Trials I Observed

The main test and trial I observed and related to was the peer pressure someone faces as they develop their faith (Dykstra, 1982). I was talking to a young person struggling with her faith because she felt she was missing out on drinking and having sex before marriage. She felt these things were fun, and a hole was inside her because she was missing out. However, the truth was that she was feeling peer pressure due to her pursuit of her faith, which is counterculture to the existing faith. This led her to question her faith and the truth of what it means to have peace that surpasses all understanding (Granqvist & Nkara, 2017).

I also learned that another test is the test of conscience and how malleable morality truly is. I have seen good people react immorally in a moment of weakness or when they are in a challenging situation (Dykstra, 1982). For example, I have seen great men fall into affairs because they were in compromising situations. I have also seen people make immoral decisions because they were in situations where there was no good choice. These situations were made clear by how many tests people encounter in their growth in faith and morality.

Enhancing Flourishing

I believe enhancing flourishing in morality and faith stems from believing in Jesus. In John 15:4, Jesus says, "Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me." I would say that bearing fruit means flourishing. By abiding in Jesus, we can gain virtues that help us live morally. This is highlighted in Galatians 5:22-23, which says, "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things, there is no law." These fruits come when an individual abides in Jesus. They flourish because of it.

Flourishing in faith also comes in walking with Christ. James 4:8 says, "Come close to God, and God will come close to you." This means our faith is replenished and rewarded as we draw near God. This means our faith is strengthened as we draw near God and experience His goodness (Schinkel & de Ruyter, 2017). This is why it is vital to say Jesus is the enhancing factor in the walk of faith.

Application of Positive Psychology

Positive psychology is an area within psychology that centers its attention on examining positive emotions, personal strengths, overall well-being, and the optimal functioning of individuals (Granqvist & Nkara, 2017). The objective of this study is to ascertain the factors that lead to the attainment of a satisfying and purposeful existence, as well as to explore how persons can flourish. The findings of positive psychology research are consistent with the observations presented in the articles on faith and moral growth, particularly concerning the promotion of optimal human well-being. One of them is in resilience and coping (Schinkel & de Ruyter, 2017). Positive psychology provides excellent coping strategies for individuals in the face of challenges. The walk of moral and spiritual excellence is an arduous one. Positive psychology can be essential in this.

I also found positive psychology essential in identifying the heart's wants. The heart often struggles with faith and morality as it often wants things to happen in a way that brings it joy (Granqvist & Nkara, 2017). This is why pursuing good experiences is not a great approach in life. Positive psychology emphasizes positive encounters in life, which can signify what the heart wants. Positive psychology can be vital in determining the heart's desires and praying that the Lord helps me deal with them and accept His will.

Christ the Center

This portion of learning involved a lot of philosophy. However, I realized that man's wisdom is akin to what God considers foolishness. While its use is important, it should not be understated that the solution to the problem is Jesus. If the answers do not have Jesus as the center, they are useless and will do little to help individuals.

References

Bible, D. (1985).  The Bible. Chrysalis..

Dykstra, C. R. (1982). Theological table-talk: Transformation in faith and morals.  Theology Today,  39(1), 56-64.

Granqvist, P., & Nkara, F. (2017). Nature meets nurture in religious and spiritual development.  British Journal of Developmental Psychology,  35(1), 142-155.

Schinkel, A., & de Ruyter, D. J. (2017). Individual moral development and moral progress.  Ethical Theory and Moral Practice,  20, 121-136.