Developmental psychologists are concerned with the study of human growth and development throughout the lifespan, including physical, cognitive, social, intellectual, perceptual, personality, and emotional growth. They also research the development of children and adolescents. Developmental psychologists who work in colleges and universities are more likely to be involved in research or teaching than they are in clinical practice.
Developmental psychologists are those who research how people develop and adapt as they progress through life stages. They do research with the goal of assisting people in reaching their greatest potential. For example, babies who are not walking by the age of 15 months may be exhibiting indicators of a developmental delay or signs of a more serious health condition that requires medical attention.
The field of applied psychology, specifically in the field of applied developmental psychology. It is an emerging field that is concerned with the use of developmental theory and research in order to promote positive developmental outcomes in individuals, families, and communities. As a career choice I would like to purse development psychology in areas pertaining to children with disability.
Research topic
There are numerous studies, which have been conducted to examine the area of behavioral psychology, among these studies are those that focus on examining behavioural psychology as a specialization. Dowd, Clen & Arnold, (2010) conducted a study to examine the “the specialty practice of cognitive and behavioral psychology.” In their study, the researchers sought to examine the rationale as to why behavioral psychology is considered a speciality course in psychology. Cognitive and behavioral psychology is a specialization that focuses on how these two types of psychology work together and how they can be used in psychotherapy. Dowd, Clen & Arnold (2010) it gives a brief history of the field, then talks about how to assess, think about a case, and plan treatment for it. Information about education and training is given. Resources are suggested for people who want to become more skilled in cognitive and behavioral psychology. They should get certified as specialists in cognitive and behavioral psychology if they use cognitive and behavioral principles in their work with patients or clients. Such a study is important in providing insightful knowledge on the scope and depth on the field of behavioral psychology and its justification for application in various fields.
Moreover, I have had an interest in examining how behavioral strategies are applied in schools in middle income or low income countries in respect to children with disability. For example Kinyua (2019) conducted a study in Kenya (middle Income country” to examine the “influence of Behavioural Intervention Strategies on Academic Achievement among Form Three Students with Learning Disability.” The findings revealed that a variety of school factors contribute to LD students’ behavioral issues, including inaccurate identification, indecisive behavior management rules, and teachers’ inappropriate classroom management tactics. Poor academic performance, unfavourable attitude towards studies, and limited contact, especially on academic subjects, were identified to be some of the repercussions of behavioral issues. The study proposes that schools and parents work together to address some of the school conditions that contribute to LD students’ behavioral issues (the parents). The study advocates a solution-focused approach to intervention that addresses both learning and behavior change for the learner’s wellbeing. The findings of such a study provide insight on some of the strategies used by educators and behavioral psychologies in other countries in managing children disabilities who have behavioral issues or challenges.
Limitation of the studies
Of the challenges of the study conducted by Dowd, Clen & Arnold (2010) is that the research has utilised secondary information to make conclusions. Essentially, there are numerous challenges associated with the use of secondary data such as lack of reliability of the sourced materials. More so, the researcher did not show any formulas, which have been used to assess the validity and reliability of the secondary information used. Kinyua (2019) study experienced numerous such as: The research was carried out in both rural and urban settings, with the assumption that the behavior manifestations would be the same in all settings. Several schools from a large geographic area were included in the study, and the sample size was expanded to boost statistical power to detect substantial differences and improve external validity. This was done in order to mitigate this drawback. The study was not able to capture the characteristics of other expressed behaviors that were influenced by factors other than learning difficulties, which were not taken into consideration (LD).
Discuss other factors that might impact the credibility
Examining the study conducted by Kinyua (2019) it can be established that the study was focused in a specific area. Specifically, the researcher utilised data from one institution. The result from a sample size sourced from a single institution cannot be scientifically be used to reflect the input of the study contribution to the general population thus, impacting on the credibility of the study. Similarly, the lack of interaction between the research and direct participating in the study conducted by Dowd, Clen & Arnold (2010) can form basis for lack of research credibility.
Summary of research design
Generally speaking, a research design is an overarching strategy that you employ to integrate the various components of your study in a coherent and logical manner, thus ensuring that you will effectively address the research problem; it provides a blueprint for the gathering, data collection, and analysis of data. The researcher has used varying research designs in their studies. For instance, Kinyua (2019) used a descriptive survey design that combined qualitative and quantitative methods. It was chosen because it is not limited to fact-finding, but frequently leads to the formation of key knowledge and understanding concepts about the research subject. It also allows qualitative data to be used to supplement any bias that may occur from quantitative data. Data is measured, classified, analysed, compared, and interpreted as part of this design. There was no specific research approach specified in the study conducted by Dowd, Clen & Arnold (2010).
The use of the mix method approach was appropriate for the study conducted by Kinyua (2019). Mixed approaches are particularly beneficial for figuring out why there are discrepancies between quantitative and qualitative findings in a given situation. The point of view of the participants is reflected. Mixed methods allow study participants to express themselves and ensure that study conclusions are founded in the experiences of the participants.
Moreover, both studies have demonstrated adherence to APA Ethical Principles of Psychologists for instance the use of APA referencing and in text citations. Additionally, the structural organization are in accordance with APA guidelines.
Reference
Dowd, E. T., Clen, S. L., & Arnold, K. D. (2010). The specialty practice of cognitive and behavioral psychology. Professional Psychology: Research and Practice, 41(1), 89.
Kinyua, J. N. (2019). Influence of Behavioural Intervention Strategies on Academic Achievement among Form Three Students with Learning Disability in Nyeri County, Kenya (Doctoral dissertation, SCHOOL OF EDUCATION, KENYATTA UNIVERSITY).
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