You will select a topic of your choice represented in a movie or television show and discuss how the movie/television show relates to an issue, theory, or concept within developmental psychology. Then, you will write a 3-5 page paper discussing how your topic was portrayed by the movie/TV show you selected and/or how it relates to the movie/TV show you selected. 

Part 1: Provide a brief synopsis of the movie in your own words (less than 1 page).

Part 2: Apply the concepts and theories covered in this class to the film. You must address the following:

Explain what developmental theories or concepts can be applied to this movie and the main character

Consider the following theories, concepts, and key figures we have discussed in class:

• Any of Erik Erikson’s stages of development

Vygotsky’s Sociocultural Theory of Cognitive Development

Lawrence Kohlberg’s stages of moral development

• Development of Identity

Marcia’s 4 Identity Statuses

factors that affect identity development (especially in adolescence)

Cultural Identity Development

• Self-Esteem and Self-Concept

Development and differences in friendship and dating across developmental periods/ages

• Gender differences in friendships and cliques

Dating, romantic attraction, marriage

Sexual orientation and sexual development and exploration

• Gender Identity, gender stereotypes, gender norms/roles, gender schemas
• Emotional Understanding, Emotional Regulation
• Aggression 
• Child-rearing and parenting styles and practices

Attachment Theory

• Punishment and Praise

Vocational Development (chapter 13)

• Explain how other influences impact the main character or other characters
• influences might include: peers, family members, traditional vs. non-traditional families, teachers, cliques/peer group differences, access to education, coaches or extracurricular activities, dating partners
• Explain how context (e.g., culture, SES, neighborhood, community resources, community atmosphere or involvement, peer groups, school environment, religion) influences the main character(s)
• Part 3: Provide a brief concluding paragraph summarizing your thoughts on the film and how it relates to class (less than 1 page).