Social development across the human lifespan

Social development across the human lifespan

Infancy (0-2 Years)

  • Infants begin to form important attachment relationships with primary caregivers, creating emotional security.
  • They rely heavily on adults to meet basic needs.
  • Communication occurs through crying, smiling, and gesturing.
  • Respond positively to physical contact and begin to recognise familiar people and faces.
  • Showing signs of specific emotions, such as fear and happiness.

Early Childhood (2-8 Years)

  • Children begin to develop relationships outside the family, such as making friends at school or in the community.
  • Play becomes a crucial part of social interaction, aiding in the development of problem-solving skills and cooperative behaviours.
  • Practising sharing and taking turns enhance their understanding of fairness.
  • They experience a broad range of emotions and start understanding the concept of empathy.

Adolescence (9-18 Years)

  • The formation of a personal identity and sense of self is a key focus during adolescence.
  • Peer relationships become increasingly important, sometimes leading to peer pressure situations.
  • They develop a deeper understanding of empathy and the ability to understand multiple perspectives.
  • The discrimination related to gender, culture, and race becomes noticeable, which may affect their self-esteem and world view.
  • The concept of romantic love and relationships emerges.

Adulthood (19-65 Years)

  • Relationships and social interaction may intensify in importance with the possibility of marriage and starting a family.
  • Social roles and responsibilities may increase as they enter into the workplace or become parents.
  • Caring for aging parents might become a priority, leading to role alterations within the family.
  • Social networks might expand or contract based on life changes, for instance, retirement or loss of significant others.

Old Age (65+ Years)

  • Social interaction may decline due to retirement, the death of friends and family, or health issues.
  • Adult children might take on the role of caregiver.
  • Some older adults may experience isolation due to limited mobility or lack of nearby family.
  • Social support and engagement become vital to emotional well-being and cognitive function.
  • The importance of maintaining a sense of purpose and contribution to society reigns supreme in this stage.