Human Growth and Development

HHG4M explores the physical, cognitive, and socio-emotional development of individuals from conception through late adulthood.

Drawing on insights from

• Psychology
• Sociology Anthropology Students examine developmental theories
• The impact of risk
• Protective factors across life stages.

The course encourages inquiry-based learning and is ideal for those interested in careers in health care, education, social services, or early childhood development.

Unit 1: Theories of Human Development
Students examine foundational frameworks for understanding human growth and behaviour.
Lessons include:

• Freud’s Psychosexual Theory
• Erikson’s Psychosocial Stages
• Pavlov’s Classical Conditioning
• Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory
• Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs
• Threats to Development (e.g., Trauma, Neglect)
• Protective Factors and Resilience
• Role of Government and NGOs in Human Development

Unit 2: Physical Development Across the Lifespan
This unit explores the biological changes that occur from infancy to old age.
Lessons include:

• Gesell’s Maturation Theory
• Puberty and Physical Milestones
• Menopause and Aging Bodies
• Brain Development and Neural Plasticity
• Gross and Fine Motor Skill Development
• Role of Sensory Stimulation
• Biological Risk Factors and Environmental Influences

Unit 3: Cognitive Development and Intelligence
Students investigate how individuals think, learn, and reason across various life stages.
Lessons include:

• Piaget’s Cognitive Development Stages
• Kohlberg’s Moral Reasoning Theory
• Reflective Thinking and Adult Cognition
• Information Processing and Memory
• Language Development and Acquisition
• Intelligence Theories and Multiple Intelligences
• Cognitive Developmental Delays and Interventions

Unit 4: Socio-Emotional Development and Personality
This unit focuses on personality formation, relationships, and emotional growth.
Lessons include:

• Attachment Theory (Bowlby, Ainsworth)
• Emotional Regulation and Empathy
• Birth Order and Personality Traits
• Identity Formation and Self-Concept
• Gender Roles and Cultural Influences
• Socialization Processes and Agents
• Marginalization and Its Psychological Impact

Unit 5: Final Evaluation
Students consolidate their learning with summative assessments.
Lessons include:

• Final Culminating Profile or Developmental Case Study
• Final Exam

• 70% of the final grade is based on coursework, including:
  • Developmental theory applications and case analyses
  • Journals and personal growth reflections
  • Research on life-span milestones and social factors
  • Quizzes, tests, and collaborative activities
• 30% of the final grade is based on final evaluations:
  • 20% Culminating development-based profile or applied project
  • 10% Final written exam assessing key theories and life stage understanding

All assessments follow Ontario curriculum standards and are designed to foster a deep understanding of human growth and the many social, biological, and psychological factors that influence it.