Early Childhood Development Scenario

Tracy is a 6-year-old student heavily influenced by the use of technology. It is known that the family experienced some major stressors last year that resulted in Tracy`s parents contemplating divorce. The pressure Tracy receives at home causes her to withdraw from all school activities, including recess and friends. She has disengaged from regular activities and sits alone when not required to participate in group activities. Since her parents are working long hours, she is under the care of an elderly grandmother who also works part-time. When she is not available, Tracy is with her teenage cousins. At home, she is engaged nonstop in video games to fill idle time. She focuses on these games at dinnertime and rarely goes outside to play independently or with friends.

Choose one of the following discussion prompts to respond to:

1. Identify the challenges that Tracy may be experiencing. What development milestones are affected by her circumstances?

2. Identify any psychosocial conflicts that may be present and the transitions related to early school age or middle childhood that should be considered.

3. Choose one developmental theory and explain how that theory helps you understand this student`s behavior.