Development Across the Lifespan Applied Case Study

Course Text:

OpenStax. (2025). Lifespan Development. ISBN: 978-1-961584-53-2. Available free online

Purpose

You will apply concepts from Lifespan Development to analyze the development of a real or fictional person. You will focus on one life stage and connect their experiences to one developmental theory from the textbook, using credible research to support your points.

NO AI USAGE

This assignment must be your own original work.

You may NOT use generative AI tools (ChatGPT, Google Gemini, Microsoft Copilot, Jasper, etc.) to create, rewrite, summarize, paraphrase, or generate any part of your paper.

You may NOT use AI for outlines, sentence starters, citations, or ideas to get you started that are then used in your submission.

You MAY use basic grammar and spell-check tools (e.g., Microsoft Words Editor, Grammarly) for proofreading only, not for rewriting or content generation.

All analysis, examples, and reflection must be in your own words.

Violations will result in a zero for the assignment and may be reported for academic misconduct.

Requirements

Length: 34 full pages (double-spaced, 12-point font, standard margins)

Sources: Exactly three:

OpenStax Lifespan Development textbook

One credible book or scholarly article

One credible source (reputable website, scholarly article, or book)

Citations: Must be consistent (format of your choice) with in-text citations and a reference list

Formatting: Neat, organized, and proofread

Paper Structure

Introduction and Case Description

Identify your subject (real or fictional) and give background.

Clearly state the life stage you are focusing on from the textbook.

Application of Theory

Apply one developmental theory from the textbook.

Use textbook terms and concepts accurately.

Support with examples from your subjects life.

Research Connection and Conclusion

Incorporate your two outside sources to strengthen your analysis.

Summarize what your case study reveals about human development.

Grading Focus

Your paper will be graded on:

Clear organization and logical flow

Correct and accurate application of one developmental theory

Effective integration of research sources

Depth of analysis and connection between theory and case

Grammar, mechanics, and formatting

Example 1: Real Person Case Study

Topic: Applying Eriksons Identity vs. Role Confusion Stage to a High School Senior Navigating College Decisions

Introduction and Case Description:

The subject is an 18-year-old senior at a public high school preparing for graduation. They are the first in their family to attend college, facing pressure from parents to choose a practical major while wanting to pursue art.

Application of Theory:

Erik Eriksons psychosocial theory, specifically the stage of Identity vs. Role Confusion, is applied. The paper explores how conflicting messages from peers, parents, and social media impact the subjects identity development.

Research Connection and Conclusion:

Use the Lifespan Development textbook, a peer-reviewed article on adolescent identity formation, and a credible website discussing college decision stress.

Example 2: Fictional Case Study

Topic: Applying Piagets Preoperational Stage to the Character Bluey from the Childrens Television Series

Introduction and Case Description:

The subject is Bluey, a fictional 4-year-old Blue Heeler puppy from the animated show Bluey. The description includes her family dynamics, school experiences, and typical play activities.

Application of Theory:

Jean Piagets cognitive development theory, specifically the Preoperational Stage, is used to explain Blueys imaginative play, egocentric thinking, and developing symbolic understanding.

Research Connection and Conclusion:

Sources include the Lifespan Development textbook, a scholarly article on pretend play in preschoolers, and a reputable child development website.

Example 3: Historical Figure Case Study

Topic: Applying Kbler-Rosss Stages of Grief to President Abraham Lincoln After the Death of His Son Willie

Introduction and Case Description:

Focuses on Abraham Lincolns grief after the death of his 11-year-old son in 1862, describing historical accounts of his emotional state and coping behaviors.

Application of Theory:

Elisabeth Kbler-Rosss Five Stages of Grief model is applied, examining evidence of denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance through Lincolns personal letters and eyewitness accounts.

Research Connection and Conclusion:

Sources include the Lifespan Development textbook, a scholarly biography of Lincoln, and an article from a historical journal on grief in the 19th century.

Choose the example that is best for you!