Course: Case Studies in Developmental Psychology

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Course title Case Studies in Developmental Psychology
Course code KKV/PTKSP
Organizational form of instruction Seminary
Level of course Master
Year of study not specified
Semester Winter
Number of ECTS credits 2
Language of instruction Czech
Status of course Compulsory
Form of instruction Face-to-face
Work placements This is not an internship
Recommended optional programme components None
Lecturer(s)
  • Potměšilová Petra, prof. PhDr. et Mgr. Ph.D.
  • Slámková Petra, Mgr.
Course content
The course draws on developmental psychology and focuses on applying its concepts to understanding individuals at different stages of life. The course begins with an introduction to selected theories of human development and their relevance to practice, with particular emphasis on Erik Erikson's psychosocial theory of development. Individual developmental stages will then be discussed, focusing on psychosocial conflicts, developmental tasks, typical needs, and potential challenges. The course will also include case study work, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge to specific life situations. Topics covered: - Developmental psychology and its relevance to practice. Selected theories of human development. Introduction to Erik Erikson's psychosocial theory of development. - Infancy - basic trust vs. mistrust. - Toddlerhood - autonomy vs. shame and doubt. - Preschool age - initiative vs. guilt. - School age - industry vs. inferiority. - Adolescence - identity vs. role confusion. - Young adulthood - intimacy vs. isolation; emerging adulthood and the quarter-life crisis. - Adulthood - generativity vs. stagnation; parenthood and specific aspects of middle and later adulthood. - Older adulthood - ego integrity vs. despair; specific aspects of early and advanced old age. - Conclusion and review of the topics covered.

Learning activities and teaching methods
Monologic Lecture(Interpretation, Training), Dialogic Lecture (Discussion, Dialog, Brainstorming), Work with Text (with Book, Textbook)
Learning outcomes
The aim of the course is to introduce students to the individual developmental stages according to E. Erikson through case studies that they will work with during the seminars. Practical examples will be used to illustrate the specific needs and possible challenges associated with different developmental periods. The seminar will also introduce approaches to working with individuals from different age groups.
Upon completion of the course, students will be able to: - explain the basic principles of E. Erikson's psychosocial theory of development, - characterize the typical manifestations and needs of individuals in different developmental periods, - identify possible challenges and problems related to developmental crises, - analyze an individual's specific situation with regard to their developmental period and take their specific needs into account when choosing an appropriate approach, - describe situations in which it is appropriate to recommend professional psychological help.
Prerequisites
No specific prerequisites are required for studying the course.
KKV/PTVPS

Assessment methods and criteria
Student performance, Anamnestic Method

Course completion requirements: - attendance at seminars is compulsory; a maximum of two absences is permitted, - completion and presentation of the final assignment (a case study) as part of the colloquium, in accordance with the instructions provided in the course study materials in Moodle. Students with an Individual Study Plan (ISP): As part of their self-study, students are required to study the materials provided in the course study materials in Moodle, complete the substitute assignment according to the specified instructions, and complete the colloquium.
Recommended literature
  • Erikson, E. H. (2022). Dětství a společnost. Praha.
  • Erikson, E. H. Životní cyklus rozšířený a dokončený. 1999.
  • Georgi, H., Dragomirecká, E., & Jarolímová, E. (Eds.). (2024). Psychologie stárnutí a stáří. Praha.
  • Langmeier, J., & Krejčířová, D. (2006). Vývojová psychologie (2., aktualizované vyd.). Praha.
  • Pöthe, P. (2022). Vývojová a vztahová terapie dětí. Praha.
  • Říčan, P. (2021). Cesta životem: Vývojová psychologie (4., doplněné vyd.). Praha.
  • Thorová, K. (2015). Vývojová psychologie: Proměny lidské psychiky od početí po smrt. Praha.
  • Vágnerová, M. & Lisá, L. (2021). Vývojová psychologie: Dětství a dospívání. Praha.
  • Vágnerová, M. (2007). Vývojová psychologie II: Dospělost a stáří. Praha.


Study plans that include the course
Faculty Study plan (Version) Category of Branch/Specialization Recommended year of study Recommended semester