What is Developmental Psychology?
If you have an interest in human behavior and human development over the course of a lifetime, you may be curious to learn about careers in developmental psychology. Developmental psychologists examine the ways in which people develop at different ages and determines the kinds of psychological milestones that should normally be expected at different stages, according to the American Psychological Association.
Cognitive development, often times referred to as mental development, plays a massive role in human beings and their intellectual development. When developmental psychologists study and examine the biological factors and environmental factors that were present in our early childhood and early adulthood, they unlock the fundamental aspects of who we are. For example, how we process situations, how we act in social situations, how we cope, how and why we struggle with mental health, etc. Research findings have proven that developmental psychologists are important professionals in not only child psychology but all aspects of psychology that we may partake in throughout our aging process.
Finding a Career in Developmental Psychology…
Just as we go through many developmental processes throughout our lifetime, there are many careers within this field. We are complex beings with individuals differences and we have all go through signifiant developmental milestones throughout life that play a role in who we are. Just as we may not all need the same time of counseling or therapy, we may not all want to enter the same career field, regardless of having a common interest in the developmental process.
While there are positions relevant to developmental psychology at various levels of education, career options become more plentiful and lucrative with the attainment of a Master’s or Doctoral degree. Here are some of the more common careers in the field of developmental psychology for your consideration.
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Early Childhood Education Specialist
Early childhood education specialists are professionals who are employed by public or private preschools or other childcare centers. They use their knowledge of child development to support the teachers and staff regarding implementing the educational curriculum, handling issues regarding individual students or complying with educational law and policy. These specialists provide instructional support, assist in the preparation of an educational approach that is developmentally appropriate and assess the developmental needs of students. They likely hold a Bachelor’s in Child Development, Developmental Psychology, Special Education or other program that centers around the needs of young children.
Residential Youth Treatment Specialist
Residential youth treatment specialist is another one of the types of careers in developmental psychology. It is possible to be hired with only a high school diploma, but academic understanding of developmental psychology will make you more marketable, as well as making your job easier. These professionals are tasked with supervising and guiding the activities of youth who have been remanded to a residential treatment facility. The ages and genders are such agencies are likely to vary, which is why a broad knowledge of psychological development can be so beneficial in this job. Residential youth treatment specialists will need to assist in teaching and modifying youth behaviors, provide appropriate discipline action for infractions and communicate in both writing and verbally regarding incidents and observations.
Developmental Psychologist
A developmental psychologist can work in a number of settings such as schools, health agencies, research facilities or even in private practice. They also treat people of various ages and specialize in any number of areas. They can provide individual, group, couples or family therapy. In such cases, you would need to develop a treatment plan While there are positions relevant to developmental psychology at various levels of education, career options become more plentiful and lucrative with the attainment of a Master’s of Doctoral degree. Here are some of the more common careers in the field of developmental psychology for your consideration. that addresses the needs of individuals and utilize counseling strategies to assist them in managing presenting issues. In a research capacity, your task would be to study human behavior at significant life stages in order to determine appropriate actions, as well as ways of effectively changing inappropriate behaviors. Developmental psychologists serve as consultant to organizations like schools or insurance agencies, as well. A doctorate, either Ph.D or Psy.D, is required for these positions.
Professor
Professors at the college or university level also usually need to have an earned doctoral degree. Professors of developmental psychology courses will teach undergraduates and graduate students the theories and information they need to know within the subject area. If you choose to pursue this academic route, you may also be expected to undergo research and submit articles based on that research to professional journals.
Still Interested in Entering the Field of Developmental Psychology?
There are a variety of ways in which you can utilize an academic background in this field. Many types of careers in developmental psychology are available, depending on your interests and educational aspirations – all of which are rewarding for both parties involved. Best of luck on your educational and professional journey.
