PSYC FPX 2600 Assessment 2 Worksheet: Impact of Technology on Child Development

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PSYC FPX 2600 Assessment 2 Worksheet: Impact of Technology on Child Development

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Student Name

Capella University

PSYC-FPX2600 Development Across the Lifespan

Prof. Name

Date

Introduction

In an era dominated by screens and digital communication, understanding the impact of technology on children’s emotional and social growth has become increasingly important. As children are introduced to smartphones, tablets, and computers at younger ages, their ability to build genuine interpersonal connections may be affected. This raises a vital question: Are we fostering digital proficiency at the expense of authentic human relationships?

Section 1: Physical and Cognitive Development in Infants and Toddlers

Sleep Patterns in Infancy and Toddlerhood

According to Lifespan Development by Riser, Spielman, and Biek (2024), newborns typically require around 14–17 hours of sleep per day, while toddlers need approximately 11–14 hours, including naps. Reflecting on my granddaughter’s early years, she consistently slept within this range. Our family emphasized bedtime routines such as a quiet environment, consistent bedtimes, and gentle swaddling practices. These rituals contributed positively to her emotional stability, secure attachment, and cognitive development by ensuring sufficient rest and structure. Establishing consistent sleep habits in early life fosters not only physical growth but also helps young children regulate emotions and attention (Riser et al., 2024).

Impact of Family Income and Living Environment on Language Development

A family’s income and living conditions play a significant role in shaping early language acquisition. Children in higher-income families are often surrounded by more books, educational toys, and frequent verbal interactions, which strengthen their vocabulary and communication skills (Riser et al., 2024). Conversely, children from low-income households may face limited exposure to these resources, resulting in slower language development.

Influencing Factor	Effect on Language Development	Community Interventions
Access to educational materials	Enhances vocabulary and literacy	Free book programs, libraries
Parental interaction	Boosts verbal and social skills	Parenting workshops
Financial limitations	Reduces exposure to rich language	Early literacy initiatives

Community programs that provide free or low-cost books, early childhood literacy sessions, and parent–child reading events can significantly help close the language development gap (Riser et al., 2024).

Section 2: Social and Emotional Development in Infants and Toddlers

Emotional Expression and Attachment Styles

Growing up, my family valued emotional restraint and independence. Emotional displays were discouraged, and I learned to internalize feelings rather than express them. This likely contributed to developing an avoidant attachment style, as described by Bowlby and elaborated on in Chapter 4 of Riser et al. (2024). As an adult, I notice a preference for emotional self-sufficiency and caution in forming new relationships. Recognizing these early influences helps me understand my interpersonal patterns and emphasizes the long-term impact of family emotional norms.

Temperament and Personality Formation

According to Thomas and Chess’s temperament theory (1977, as cited in Riser et al., 2024), I was a child who adjusted slowly to new experiences. My cautious and observant nature led me to think before acting, preferring stability and predictability. Over time, this temperament evolved into a personality marked by patience and thoughtfulness. Early temperament plays a foundational role in developing coping styles, influencing how individuals respond to challenges throughout life (Riser et al., 2024).

Section 3: Physical and Cognitive Development in Early Childhood

Role of Play in Learning and Creativity

During my early years, I often engaged in playful activities like “paper wad wars” or mock karate matches with my older brother. These experiences, though simple, enhanced creativity, problem-solving, and coordination (Riser et al., 2024). Pretend play and active games are key to cognitive development, teaching children cooperation, imagination, and strategy-building.

Childhood Nutrition and Eating Habits

In my family, meals were often adult-centered, and children ate whatever remained. This created a habit of eating minimally and independently. Such practices can influence long-term eating behaviors and nutritional health (Riser et al., 2024). Balanced meals and family-inclusive dining are essential for supporting physical growth and healthy relationships with food.

Formation of Gender Identity

My childhood experiences with gender were a blend of traditional and nontraditional behaviors. I played with dolls but also enjoyed adventurous outdoor play with my brothers. This combination allowed me to understand that gender identity is flexible and influenced by both culture and personal preference (Riser et al., 2024). My family’s expectations reinforced certain feminine traits like compliance and reserve, shaping how I express my identity today.

Section 4: Physical and Cognitive Development in Middle Childhood

Formal vs. Informal Learning

Exploring the woods near my home provided valuable informal learning experiences that differed from structured classroom education. Self-guided exploration encouraged curiosity, observation, and independent problem-solving—skills that formal education sometimes limits due to standardized approaches (Riser et al., 2024). Both forms of learning contribute uniquely to cognitive and personal growth.

Learning Type	Characteristics	Outcomes
Formal Learning	Structured, teacher-led	Knowledge retention, discipline
Informal Learning	Experiential, curiosity-driven	Creativity, critical thinking

Intelligence Testing and Perceived Ability

As a child in a gifted program, intelligence tests often made me anxious. Although these assessments measure reasoning and academic aptitude, they overlook creativity, emotional intelligence, and adaptability (Riser et al., 2024). Intelligence, therefore, is multifaceted, and test results cannot fully represent an individual’s cognitive potential.

Section 5: Social and Emotional Development in Middle Childhood

Resilience and Coping in Difficult Situations

One of my most challenging experiences as a child was being unjustly hospitalized due to false accusations. Despite limited family support, I developed resilience by staying calm and proving my truth. Social support was minimal, but peer connections during that period provided strength (Riser et al., 2024). Resilience grows when individuals learn to adapt and find internal coping mechanisms, even when external support is lacking.

Moral Reasoning and Ethical Growth

As a child, deciding whether to reveal abuse at home was an ethical dilemma. Initially, fear of punishment influenced my silence. Over time, I learned to value truth and self-protection. This evolution aligns with Kohlberg’s stages of moral development, which suggest that moral reasoning advances from avoiding punishment to acting on universal ethical principles (Riser et al., 2024).

Section 6: Physical and Cognitive Development in Adolescence

Nutrition, Sleep, and Adolescent Health

Adolescence demands adequate sleep and proper nutrition for optimal growth and cognitive performance. Balanced diets support hormonal changes and physical development, while quality sleep aids memory consolidation and emotional balance (Riser et al., 2024). Lack of sleep or poor nutrition can lead to mood disorders, decreased academic achievement, and weakened immunity. Schools and families should encourage regular sleep schedules and nutritious eating habits to promote healthy adolescent development.

Brain Development and Decision-Making

During my teen years, I often stayed up late watching television rather than studying. This reflects the developmental imbalance between the underdeveloped prefrontal cortex (responsible for decision-making) and the heightened sensitivity of the brain’s reward system (Riser et al., 2024). Understanding these neurological processes helps explain impulsive decisions typical of adolescence.

Section 7: Social and Emotional Development in Adolescence

Ethnic and Sexual Identity Formation

A positive sense of ethnic and sexual identity during adolescence enhances self-esteem, emotional stability, and resilience (Riser et al., 2024). Teens confident in who they are can better withstand discrimination and navigate the transition to adulthood. Supportive environments and inclusive communities foster belonging, which strengthens mental health and social adjustment.

Applying Lifespan Development to Real Life

One valuable concept from Chapters 3–10 is the importance of social support networks. Meaningful relationships—whether with friends, mentors, or peers—promote psychological resilience and emotional health (Riser et al., 2024). Developing and maintaining these relationships helps individuals manage stress, achieve goals, and maintain life satisfaction. Recognizing this encourages me to invest more intentionally in healthy social connections across personal and professional domains.