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Unit 3 The Learner
in a positive way see themselves as capable, worthwhile people and
are likely to act in ways that enhance their abilities. Those who develop
a negative self-concept often adopt self-defeating behaviors. Once a
person’s self-concept is established, it can change, but that is a difficult
task to achieve.
Erikson’s description of the conflict at the stage of industry
versus inferiority links to self-concept. Children have a drive to learn
new skills and become more independent. When adults help them
succeed, their sense of competence gives them the self-confidence
to keep meeting new challenges and mastering additional skills. They
develop the positive self-concept they need to move forward and
believe in their abilities.
Moral Development
Moral development most closely relates to social-emotional
development, although cognitive skills are also a factor. It focuses on
decisions about right and wrong as well as how society expects people
to interact.
Five- to seven-year-olds can tell the difference between right and
wrong. As you recall from studying Kohlberg’s theory, children often base
their judgments about right and wrong behavior on potential rewards
and punishments rather than on universal moral truths or family values.
They start to care more about doing the “right” things. For example,
six-year-olds may decide not to steal candy from a store because they
fear being caught. Because of their increased cognitive skills, they are
also capable of making up stories to avoid punishment.
An understanding of rules and abiding by them is one aspect of moral
development. Children at this stage are able to wait for their turn when
playing in a group or on a team. They know how to share toys and often
come up with rules for doing so. They do best when activities are based
on cooperation, rather than competition. When competition is fierce,
children may express anger and jealousy in physical ways. This is a sign
that they are not emotionally ready to compete.
Children Ages Eight and Nine
Children who are ages eight and nine are usually in second through
fourth grades. During this time, the newness of starting school is over
and the preteen years have not yet begun. Children at this stage have
increased skills, greater knowledge and better judgment, resulting in
increased independence. Eight-year-olds tend to be more easygoing than
children at the age of nine.