Developmental psychology, that is understanding the changes one goes through throughout one's lives, is a highly fascinating and critical foundation to understand when working in the psychology field, especially with children (Kuther, 2020). I would apply my knowledge of developmental psychology to clinical psychology for children and adolescents by understanding the cognitive and ethical development of young children, ranging from learning to morality. The stages of development, including Kohlberg and Erikson, provide a basis of understanding for how children change and develop over time. Accounting for ages and suggesting typical and atypical behaviors and factors that should or should not be present at a given milestone. Having this foundation of research and understanding the basis of cognitive development, when a particular scenario arises, such as academic testing for behavioral or intellectual accommodations, a proper integration of knowledge to critically assess the child will be utilized. Thus, actively utilizing research towards a specific issue at hand; applied research. In this scenario, to diagnose a child properly based off of research regarding their typical age-related milestones and behaviors. Developmental psychology is a crucial foundation to understand when working in child and adolescent psychology for it provides the information needed to best understand not only the cognitive development but additional behaviors, learning, and skills adjacent to chronological age that are present during clinical interventions.

What are your thoughts and ideas.