Lifespan Development for Social Work

1937 Words8 Pages
Lifespan Development for Social Work Within this assignment I will be considering how social differentiation and determents of life course influence social work theory. By focusing on the ecological development approach, development milestones and social learning theory, as well as considering how poverty and school can influence a child’s development. Every Child Matters, sets out the five outcomes that acknowledge what are key to children’s well-being- being healthy, staying safe, enjoying and achieving, making a positive contribution into society and achieving economic well-being. Achievement is sometimes difficult for some children due do their circumstances and may be vulnerable or have poor prospects for the future unless timely help is provided. In order to give every child the opportunity to develop to their best potential, professionals working in the area need to fully understand what influences a child’s development. Child development is a core area of knowledge for professionals required by the skills and knowledge for the children’s workforce, Department for Education and skills (2005a) to improve the wellbeing of children and young people. Mussen et al. (1990, p.5) believes that from studying child development professionals can gain an understanding of changes that appear to be universal, that occur in all children, regardless of culture or personal experiences. To understand how children’s behaviour can be influenced by environmental context or situation, and to be able to explain individual differences. This understanding can provide professionals with an understanding of human growth to explain why people behave as they do, to better understand their situation and to guide their practice. There are many influences that can shape a developing child and the outcome for an individual throughout and beyond their lives. Some are within the child,
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