Module 2 Part 6: Social Development
Social Constructivist Approach: Emphasizes social contexts of learning and knowledge construction through social interaction.
Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD): Difference between what a learner can do without help and what they can do with help.
Self-concept, Self-efficacy, Self-Esteem: Aspects of self-understanding and perception of one's abilities and worth.
Early Childhood (2-6 years)
Attachment and Relationships
Primary Attachment: Children form strong attachments to primary caregivers, which provide the foundation for later social relationships. Secure attachment is linked to positive social and emotional outcomes.
Peer Interactions: Early childhood is marked by increased interaction with peers through play. Play types evolve from solitary play to parallel play and eventually to cooperative play. These interactions help children learn social norms and develop communication skills.
Social Skills: Children begin to learn essential social skills such as sharing, taking turns, and empathy. These skills are often taught and reinforced through play and adult guidance.
Middle Childhood (6-11 years)
Peer Relationships
Friendships: Friendships become more stable and complex. Children start to value trust, loyalty, and shared interests in their friendships. These relationships provide emotional support and a sense of belonging.
Social Competence: Children develop greater social competence through interactions with peers. They learn to navigate social hierarchies, manage conflicts, and cooperate with others.
School Influence: School becomes a critical context for social development. Children engage in group activities, learn teamwork, and develop social norms within the classroom environment.
Late Childhood (11-14 years)
Adolescent Social Development
Identity and Independence: Adolescents begin to form their own identities, separate from their families. Peer groups become increasingly important as sources of social support and identity validation.
Peer Pressure and Conformity: Peer pressure peaks during this stage, influencing behaviors and social norms. Adolescents may conform to peer expectations to gain acceptance.
Social Cognition: Improved cognitive abilities allow for better understanding of complex social dynamics and the perspectives of others. This leads to more sophisticated social interactions and relationships.