Mar 04, 2026  
WSCC 2025-2026 Catalog 
    
WSCC 2025-2026 Catalog

PSY 262 - Child Psychology


Offered as needed
Lecture- 3
3 credit hrs/3 contact hrs
Prerequisite: PSY 161 - Introduction to Psychology  with “C” or better (2.0 out of a 4.0 scale)
Examines the psychological development of the child from conception through adolescence. Explores physical, cognitive, and socio‐emotional domains. Emphasis on normative development, but attention also paid to cultural variation, physical and psychological problems. Application of psychological findings to child‐rearing, guidance, and training by parents, teachers, and other interested adults. Involves research and a field experience.

Student Learning Outcomes:
  • Describe major transitions in children’s physical, cognitive, and emotional development.
  • Evaluate the purposes, strengths, and weaknesses of the research methods used to study child development.
  • Write a multi-page APA style research report based predominantly on primary source research evidence.
  • Apply child development research and theory to education, parenting, and social/family policies.
  • Objectively describe the major perspectives on contemporary ethical, cultural, and social issues related to child development.
  • Exhibit professional behavior in attendance, assignment completion, class conduct, teamwork and constructive peer feedback.