Childhood Observation
Andrea D.
Human Development
June 10, 2013
Summary
I will observe two children, one male and one female. The male child is 10 years old, African-American, has two older male siblings and lives with both of his married, biological parents. He lives in a single family home in a gated community. I would consider his socioeconomic status to be upper-middle class. I base this on the fact that both of his parents have graduate degrees and hold executive positions at their respective companies.
The female child is also 10 years old and is a second cousin to the male child. She is African-American (although, she considers herself to be bi-racial), has 3 older siblings (two of whom are half siblings) and lives with both of her unmarried, biological parents. She lives in an extended stay hotel room with her family. They have resided in this location for more than four years. I would consider her socioeconomic status to be low income, working class. I base this on the fact that the father is a high school graduate who works full time and the mother is a high school drop-out who is unemployed.
“Scott”, the 10 year old male subject, is excited about starting Middle school next year. At 5’3”, he is taller than many of his peers. As mentioned before, Scott has two older brothers. The oldest brother has just completed his 1st year of college away from home. The middle brother is a rising 7th grader and stands several inches shorter than Scott. His middle brother was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficit which is limiting his height. As a result, Scott has found himself playing the role of protector of his older brother, which is some ways has changed the dynamic of their relationship. (Berger, 2008, p. 342). Scott appears to be a secure, well adjusted adolescent. I believe that coming from a stable home where he is well provided for plays a major role in his sense of self. (Berger, 2008, p. 349). He thrives in school and is...