Winter, 2017

FS505

DeWitt Goudelock

FS505: CHILD AND FAMILY DEVELOPMENT Brianne DeWitt Goudelock

COURSE DESCRIPTION:

This course provides an integrated overview of the process of human development from infancy through adolescence focusing on application in theological integration of developmental theory. We will address psychological, cultural, and theological perspectives on the nature of personal and social development as we seek to answer the question, “What is God’s intention for persons to develop into?” Development will be explored from the poles of flourishing and languishing as informed by humankind’s origin in God. A life-span approach will explore core areas of identity development including: moral/faith, gender and sexuality, family and relationship, and cultural/ethnicity. Students will reflect on their life experiences and apply course content to their therapeutic/ministry setting in light of the course content.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

1. Provide students with a developmental perspective that directly applies to clinical work.

2. Provide an integrative approach to human development.

3. Provide an overview of major developmental theories with an emphasis on a multidimensional view of development.

4. Explore issues specific to different developmental periods and issues of family life cycle stages.

5. Expose students to current developmental research areas.

6. Provide the opportunity for personal integration.

7. Provide the opportunity for in depth application of developmental theories case studies.

RELATIONSHIP TO SCHOOL AND SEMINARY LEARNING OUTCOMES:

1. Graduates, in their scholarly and clinical work will be equipped to apply the insights of Christian theology along with the knowledge and techniques of the social and behavioral sciences.

2. Graduates will be prepared to contribute to the development of knowledge as it relates to the interface of religious, spiritual and psychological functioning.

3. Graduates will be aware of and critically engage ecclesial, societal, and global issues from Christian theological perspectives and demonstrate the ability to make informed choices toward positive change.

4. Graduates will demonstrate the ability to identify critical issues of diversity and make appropriate responses.

5. Graduates will be able to pursue careers consistent with their education.

COURSE FORMAT:

The course will be conducted online using an 11-week lesson program aligned with Fuller’s academic calendar. Online discussion, readings, projects, and papers will facilitate course objectives. Students are expected to complete all assigned readings and participate in all discussions. All assignments must be completed to pass the course and regular online participation is expected.

REQUIRED READINGS:

Balswick, J. O., King, P. E., & Reimer, K. S. (2016). The reciprocating self: A theological perspective of development. 2^nd edition. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Academic Press. ISBN: 0830851437 • ISBN-13: 9780830851430. Suggested retail price: $35.

Balswick, J. & Balswick, J. (2007). The family: A Christian perspective on the home (3^rd ed.). Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic. ISBN-10: 0801032490 • ISBN-13: 978-0801032493. Suggested retail price: $29.80.

Course Reader available online.

ASSIGNMENTS:

Online Forum Participation, Journal Assignments, Case Responses

PREREQUISITS:

Open to all Fuller Students

RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM:

1. Meets BPC Sections 4980.36(c)(5); 4980.36(d)(2)(B),(C),(E),(G) for the State of CA.

2. Meets AAMFT core competency domain 2.1

FINAL EXAM:

Case Study