MED 607 - Human Development

5 credit hours

The course integrates the clinical and behavioral sciences associated with human development. Behavior patterns are the authentic end products of a total developmental process. Growth is a patterning process, which unfolds in sequence. Development refers to the acquisition of predictable, sequentially acquired functional skills during life and is a continual process from birth to death. Four domains of development are emphasized: physical-motor, adaptive-cognitive, language-communication and, social-emotional. Normal growth and development of humans, from infants to elderly, are discussed.

Importance is placed on the similarities and differences of the various age groups and the specialized needs of each. When appropriate, disorders, conditions and disabilities that relate directly to the disruption of the development of physical or mental processes will be discussed, including abuse, death, dying and bereavement.