Overall, Erikson’s theory has been supported by research over the years. However, there will always be detractors for every theory. Snowman and McCown (2013) wrote that Erikson’s theory “is based largely on personal experience, not applicable to many cultures, and gender biased” (pp. 22). Erikson’s research was largely based on personal and subjective observations, and it does not explain why the development takes place. Erikson’s theory may not be relative to some cultures; due to decisions in those cultures being made by the adults or elders. However, Erikson’s observations in each stage are generally spot on. If you keep in mind the detractors when analyzing students, one could see that Erikson’s stages still clearly outline some very
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Other research has shown children abilities to be more advanced in these stages and less advanced in later adolescent stages. Several studies showed that less than half of adolescents apply formal operational thought and actually most are not formal operational thinkers. Piaget’s work is criticized for being too vague and not taking culture into consideration (Snowman & McCown, 2013). One could see that Piaget doesn’t take into consideration real life experiences in early childhood and that it tends to focus on things children can’t do as opposed to what they can do. This leaves a more negative impression on Piaget’s work in totality.
Vygotsky had detractors as did Erikson and Piaget. His work takes into consideration social and cultural influences. His work also focused on the belief that those who were more intellectual, passed on greater cognitive influence. Vygotsky also believed that if classroom instruction isn’t designed properly, proper cognitive development cannot occur. The classroom is a product of culture and social influence and the tools used in these arenas aid and shape mental functioning (Snowman & McCown, 2013). This doesn’t take the individual into account with regards to the outcome of
Other research has shown children abilities to be more advanced in these stages and less advanced in later adolescent stages. Several studies showed that less than half of adolescents apply formal operational thought and actually most are not formal operational thinkers. Piaget’s work is criticized for being too vague and not taking culture into consideration (Snowman & McCown, 2013). One could see that Piaget doesn’t take into consideration real life experiences in early childhood and that it tends to focus on things children can’t do as opposed to what they can do. This leaves a more negative impression on Piaget’s work in totality.
Vygotsky had detractors as did Erikson and Piaget. His work takes into consideration social and cultural influences. His work also focused on the belief that those who were more intellectual, passed on greater cognitive influence. Vygotsky also believed that if classroom instruction isn’t designed properly, proper cognitive development cannot occur. The classroom is a product of culture and social influence and the tools used in these arenas aid and shape mental functioning (Snowman & McCown, 2013). This doesn’t take the individual into account with regards to the outcome of