Learning objectives
Theoretical and practical knowledge of certain important issues regarding childhood and adolescence. <br />
Prerequisites
Students are required to master the basic theories and concepts of developmental psychology, with particular reference to aspects related to adaptation, risk and protection in childhood. <br />
Course unit content
<p>This course analyses growth processes during childhood and adolescence from the point of view of challenges and resources, in other words of factors pertaining to risk and protection that are crucially important in adaptation processes. The introductory part of the course will discuss basic issues connected to developmental psychopathology and the concept of psychosocial risk. These concepts will be applied to childhood and adolescence. With regard to childhood, the issue of child abuse will be closely examined, with special focus on the psychological consequences that such an event may have on the development of cognitive and social skills. In addition to the above, the traumatic consequences of episodes of violence will be discussed. With regard to adolescence, the course will closely examine, on one hand, aspects of antisocial behaviour (deviance and drug addiction) and marginalisation (immigration), and on the other certain spheres of intervention, such as communities for minors or foster care. <br />
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Full programme
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Bibliography
Di Blasio, P. (2000). Psicologia del bambino maltrattato. Bologna, Il Mulino. <br />
Speltini, G. (2005). Minori, disagio e aiuto psicosociale. Bologna, Il Mulino. <br />
Teaching methods
Written exam (compulsory) and oral exam (optional). <br />
Assessment methods and criteria
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Other information
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