B8801 - RISK AND PROTECTIVE FACTORS IN DEVELOPMENT

Learning outcomes

By the end of the course students will know the theoretical models on the effects of risk and protective factors in typical, at risk and atypical development, methods and techniques for observing and evaluating indexes of developmental risk, strategies and intervention programs to promote development in educational and care contexts from infancy to adolescence.

Course contents

The course includes the following integrated modules:

Chiara Suttora (32 hours)

This module will first focus on recent theories of developmental psychology, as neuroconstructivism, considered essential in the understanding of the complex interplay of risks and protective factors in child development. It will provide students with knowledge on methods, designs, and procedures, which are necessary to recognize risk and protective factors in child development and to implement intervention protocols. One developmental contexts will be introduced to stimulate students in applying theoretical and methodological contents and developing intervention projects:

- role of parenting in promoting development and wellbeing in populations of children with at-risk and atypical development.

Annalisa Guarini (16 hours)

In the second module two other contexts will be proposed to deepen in-class theoretical and methodological reflections and to promote wellbeing and social inclusivity:

- preterm birth and its impact on child development and family adjustments;

- bullying and cyberbullying in educational settings.

Readings/Bibliography

Scientific papers and other materials will be made available at the course website. These readings are mandatory to pass the final exam.

Teaching methods

The course will consist of lessons and in-class discussions. Individuals, small-groups, and the class will work on presentations of scientific papers and on implementing intervention projects.

Assessment methods

The exam will consist of the following three parts:

- A test assessing knowledge and competences on theoretical models;

- Small-group assignments to test students’ competences on case studies;

- Individual or small-group project on a chosen topic in developmental psychology aimed at recognizing risk and protective factors and promoting wellbeing and social inclusivity.

The maximum score for the exam is 30 with honors and 18/30 is the minimum score to pass the exam.

Students with learning disorders and\or temporary or permanent disabilities: please, contact the office responsible (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en/for-students ) as soon as possible so that they can propose acceptable adjustments. The request for adaptation must be submitted in advance (15 days before the exam date) to the lecturer, who will assess the appropriateness of the adjustments, taking into account the teaching objectives.

Teaching tools

Scientific papers, slides (PowerPoint presentations), short videos and live data analysis will be proposed.

Office hours

See the website of Chiara Suttora

See the website of Annalisa Guarini