1 Chapter 1: Why Study Human Development

Introduction to the Chapter

In this first chapter, you will be provided with information about the study of human development. You will learn the underlying themes that guide the study of human development, also referred to as assumptions. These assumptions provide you with guiding knowledge to interpret and understand the content included in the subsequent chapters. These assumptions include the contribution of the individual to development, the contribution of the environment to development, the understanding of what should be focused on when examining development, and how development proceeds across the life course. 

Learning Objectives

After reading this chapter, students will:

1. Understand the major assumptions that guide the study of human development.

Learning Outcomes

After reading this chapter, students will be able to:

1. Define the major themes of the field of human development.
2. Describe how the major themes of human development relate to one another.

Conclusion

Once you’ve read Chapter 1, you should have a better understanding of the themes that guide the study of human development. You should carry this knowledge forward into the subsequent chapters, as it will provide a frame to understand the processes that influence development across the lifespan.