PSYC3009 Lifespan Development in Cultural Perspective

This topic builds on the coverage study of the human development from material in first and second year. It illustrates the application of psychological methods to the understanding of lifespan human development by focusing on specific issues in developmental psychology, including sensitivity to cross-cultural patterns and within-country, subgroup-specific patterns (e.g. cognitive ageing in Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Australians). It will adopt a biopsychosocial approach, drawing on the Lifespan Framework of Baltes and Bronfenbrenner's Bio-ecological Systems Model. Theoretical, empirical and professional approaches will be used to canvass contemporary issues impinging on development at various points across the lifespan.

This topic aims to provide students an advanced understanding of selected topics in Lifespan development, from childhood to late adulthood. It will require the development of cross-cultral awareness and an appreciation of individual differences, and cultural influences on change in behaviour over time.

1. Analyse how psychological processes vary across cultures to better understand diverse
   individuals and groups
2. Evaluate key theories, methods, and findings in lifespan developmental psychology
3. Critically evaluate a developmental research project and develop ideas for enhancing research approaches
4. Demonstrate discipline-based writing skills for psychology
5. Demonstrate knowledge of the self-regulatory strategies that people use to maximise their developmental potential across the lifespan