Recent psychological theories have tended to assume a more microsystemic or " minitheory " perspective, focusing on the explanation of a specific element of human development (Thomas, 1999). Each theory will be examined, highlighting the benefits and limitations of the work undertaken and demonstrate in real terms how each theory can be applied when working alongside clients and carers in a social work setting. The term “human growth and development” is used to explain the changes a person will undertake from cradle to grave. PDF | On Jan 1, 2015, Richard M. Lerner and others published Concepts and Theories in Human Development | Find, read and cite all the research you need on ResearchGate While the theory builds on Freud’s stages of psychosexual development, Erikson chose to focus on how social relationships impact personality development. The two primary psychoanalytic theories of development are Sigmund Freud’s theory of psychosexual development and Erik Erikson psychosocial theory of development. Key human development theories that continue to guide research and practice are examined in this engaging text. Psychoanalytic Child Development Theories. The psychoanalytic theories of child development tend to focus on things such as the unconscious, and forming the ego. The weaknesses of the 5 stages of human development. Here are some of the criticisms of Freudâ s theory of personality development. There six major theories that explain the different levels human development theories. Erik Erikson’s eight-stage theory of human development is one of the best-known theories in psychology. Just like in many other scientific disciplines, theories themselves are some of the critical pillars of the science and study of child development. Understanding the development and the changes that take place in all of us in these four domains is critical to the work of the counselor. 1. Nevertheless, the theory and the psychoanalytic assumptions are still used in psychiatry and psychotherapy today. The study of child development is a vastly important one that helps us today to understand the greater human development process itself. Ten key theories are grouped into three families - those that emphasize biological systems, environmental factors, and those that reflect an interaction between the two. The psychosexual theory of Sigmund Freud is one of the most controversial theories in psychology. This book is about human development across the lifespan, and it addresses physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development from birth to the end of life.