The Theories Presented by Lawrence Kohlberg - Assignment Example

Kohlberg did not contradict Piaget’s views but rather elaborated upon them. Kohlberg introduced a 7 stage model of moral development, which was much more detailed than Piaget’s, also, Kohlberg allowed that moral development is continuous throughout one’s lifetime not, simply, in childhood. However, one very specific difference definitely sets these two intellectuals apart. Piaget believed that child development was a matter of biological imperatives that grew and adapted along with the body, however, Kohlberg felt that moral development, like much of childhood development, can be attributed to socialization and the regular influences in their lives.

Question2b
Although there are biological imperatives created by gender that play a part in defining one’s gender roles, much of what we perceive to be primarily male or female behavior is solely determined by environment and socialization. From the time a baby is born these specific gender stereotypes begin. We automatically assign pink for girls and blue for boys. The toys that we encourage girls to play with are fashion dolls, make-up, and fairies; for boys, it is trucks, tools, and action figures. This is not a biological imperative; a baby will be attracted and amused by any toy that can hold their attention, regardless of whether it is ideally intended for boys or girls. Adults create and reinforce gender roles; children are quickly indoctrinated into learning these gender stereotypes. We encourage boys to show little emotion and girls are thought to be overpowered by it; when one does not fit into these stereotypes is when a problem can occur with the young person involved. They may punish themselves if they cannot live up to the expectations and limitations of their gender. This gender indoctrination continues to be reinforced time and time again. However, it is only obvious that environment, cultures, and socialization have a greater impact than biology ever could on defining gender roles

Question 3
Not being able to remember things, simple things that should not be easy to forget has to be, both, frustrating and, a bit, frightening. However, many experts today are fairly certain that automatically having a bad memory is not a side effect of “old age.” In fact, it is quite possible for anyone, including the elderly, to improve their memory. The top four suggestions of means for the elderly to maintain and protect their memories are as follows.

Stress Reduction- Cortisol, which the body releases in times of stress, can be detrimental to the preservation of memory, and studies have shown that it may even shrink the memory centers of the brain. To avoid stress elderly should be taught to do simple, if physically possible, stretching routines to help deal with stressful experiences.
Physical Fitness- Alzheimer’s Disease is a serious condition that destroys the memories of the elderly. However, it has been found that participating in physical activities, such as walking and appropriate exercise, can prevent memory loss and stave off the effects of Alzheimer’s disease.

Healthy Diet- The primary source of energy for the brain is glucose. When there are dips in glucose levels brain health and, therefore, memory health is diminished. For this reason, it is suggested that the aging and elderly participate in eating 5 small meals a day containing whole grains, omega-3 fats, along with antioxidants. This helps prevent dips in those memory essential glucose levels.

Memory Training- Games, puzzles, and brain-teasers are highly recommended. Interactive games that require the use of their memory and verbal skills are highly recommended, as well. For the elderly, particularly for those who have limited mobility, continuing to exercise their brains is a fantastic way to maintain their strength as they ages. (Rowlands, 2005) Read More