Principles of Human Development



Principles of Human Development

Introduction

This paper will be demonstrating understanding of Freudian theory and its impact on human development along with Jungian theory and build upon those theories, some of Ellen Langer's more holistic framework for treating the geriatric population. I will be intending to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of both Freud and Jung's theories. I also want to look in the backyard of other disciplines as well as other issues during the theorists' time frame, in order to develop a more complete picture of Freud and Jung's mind-set in order to formulate a more complete picture. It seems ludicrous only look at one aspect of human unfolding without also taking into consideration all of the other factors that could possibly affect one directly or indirectly. The fact that various disciplines are guard their turf from within and without impacts then and now the objectiveness of the data. Some other disciplines will be touched on in order to help formulate my depth and application components. Ellen Langer's philosophy of the psychology of possibility is the most suitable choice for the content of my own hypothesis because she is a clinician who allows few if any limitations imposed on her thinking process. So my hypothesis in essence has a twofold purpose. The first is to develop the conditions necessary in order to run an effective nursing home. The second is to open up the inquiry process governing the field of psychology. The depth component will be examining current theories which attempt to move the geriatric population into a more holistic medical model and utilize different approaches, such as yoga, meditation, prayer and guided imagery.

Breadth: Theories of Human Development

Classical Theorist's Description of Human Development

The twentieth century was bursting with new ideas, inventions, and developing disciplines with each fiercely defending their turf. This presented another challenge, that of keeping the original intention of each discipline alive and intact and yet still open to all sources of knowledge or risk limiting the progression of that discipline. These were some of the circumstances that Freud and Jung faced as they put to paper their hypotheses' and theories. Physics was having a surge of theories in their discipline as well. Einstein was a contemporary of Freud's and both enjoyed notoriety in their prospective disciplines (Davis, 1994). But there was little if any overlap during their time period. Today there is a plethora of information about energy that is pointing to the fact that there is not as clear a delineation between the two disciplines. Ideas such as thoughts are energy just did not compute the same way as today. It is also worth taking a look at religion and philosophy for some insight on how they were attempting to grapple with the ills affecting humanity. There are some practices that were used and still in use that assist individuals in gaining mastery over their thought processes.

Today's scholars still struggle to put to words those concepts that propel us through ...