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As we learned in Chapter research has been a key factor in the field of lifespan development. This assignment will allow you to conduct research in order to connect what we are learning in class with what you see on a daily basis. For this assignment, I want you to pick a reality television show that has a child or adolescent as a main character (Honey Boo Boo, Dance Mom’s, Teen Mom, etc. ). Watch the show and make observations regarding the character’s physical, cognitive and socio-emotional characteristics and behaviors. The character should be either 4-6 years of age or 12-16 years of age (pick one).
Take notes that will help you complete a 2-page paper (double spaced) regarding what you observed. Be sure to provide the name of the character and television show you watched. I am looking for you to be able to describe the physical/ biological, socio-emotional and cognitive behaviors you see displayed by the child/ teenager you are observing. Also, we have discussed some biological processes such as childbirth that you might observe (I. E. Watching Teen Mom). Some physical traits might include Height, weight, coordination, alertness, have they started puberty? Additionally, be sure to discuss and explain any abnormalities (I. Is the child overweight). If you do highlight a concern, be sure to reference our text. Socio- emotional observations might include general expressions of emotions and interactions with children/teens in their age group or family members. Cognitively, can they express ideas clearly? If it is a child, do they seem to developing within the “normal” ranges discussed in class? Try to make connections with some of the theories and concepts we discussed in class (I. E. Pigged, Nature vs. Nurture, Freud, Prenatal Development, Brain Development, etc. ) I chose to observe Sadie Robertson from the reality show, Duck Dynasty.
Duck Dynasty is a show focused on one family, The Robertson’s, who became famous and wealthy from a family-operated business, Duck Commander. The Robertson family includes three brothers who each have children of their own. Sadie is the daughter of Willie who is one of the brothers and also the CEO of Duck Commander. In regards to physical characteristics, Sadie is a 16 year old girl with a Louisiana accent. The genetic inheritance is evident in Sadie, as she could pass as her mother’s younger twin. She has a petite build, long brown hair, and dimples to accompany her pearly white smile.
She is a pretty girl with a sweet personality to match. In each episode, she is always dressed to impress with her hair usually straightened and a face covered with make-up. Being in the spot light, I assume this appearance is expected from her, whereas other girls her age might love to dress up and wear makeup but probably not on a day to day basis. The episode I chose to observe is one from season two titled, “Driving Miss Sadie. ” In this episode, Caddie’s father and uncles try to give her, her first driving lessons. At first, Sadie is horrible at driving, which elicits any laughs and Jokes from her family members.
Considering her age and lack of experience, her driving abilities are probably in the range of most others her age. I grew up in Louisiana with family members who love the outdoors. Coming from a country environment myself, I was learning how to drive at a young age. In regards to her socio-emotional development, Sadie seems to be very mature while interacting with her older family members, such as her uncles and great-uncle. She is able to take their Jokes or criticism about her driving without getting upset or frustrated, like many other 16 year olds might.
She also laughs and voices her opinion about her crazy great uncle’s driving techniques. In regards to Caddie’s cognitive development, once again she seems to be normal if not advanced. She is an intelligent young lady, who values her family beliefs. Throughout each episode, she interacts mostly with adults and she does so effortlessly. She seems confident in her speech and language, and doesn’t seem to have a problem speaking her mind. Other girls at this age are typically trying to “find themselves” and figure out their own voice and place in life. Sadie seems to be ahead of the game and confident in who she is.
One observation I made that seems characteristic of being a 16 year old girl is the way Sadie occasionally giggles and smiles when spoken to directly. Considering the lifestyle Sadie and her family have recently began living, the nature-nurture argument comes to my mind. Many of Caddie’s physical and personality characteristics could possibly contend for the nature side given the striking similarities between her and her mother, Koori. Her mannerisms also seem to closely reflect those of her mother and grandmother. However, the nurture stance seems to better explain the role fame and wealth might have played in the development of
Caddie’s socio- emotional and cognitive development. I think having one’s life displayed for the world to see would have a substantial impact on that individual’s development. Constantly being recorded and publicized probably had something to do with Caddie’s maturity level. She learned quickly how to present herself in a way desirable to an audience and the cameras are a constant reminder of how she should act or react. Whether the involvement in the reality television show actually shaped her development or only causes her to be something she is not is an intriguing thought.