Social Development, Peer Dynamics, and Morality — Summary of Chapter 13 from The Developing Person Through the Life Span
Social Development, Peer Dynamics, and Morality — Summary of Chapter 13 from The Developing Person Through the Life Span Between the ages of 6 and 11, children deepen their sense of self, strengthen social bonds, and begin forming moral frameworks. Chapter 13 of Kathleen Stassen Berger’s The Developing Person Through the Life Span explores how children’s development is shaped by family life, peer relationships, resilience, and moral reasoning. The chapter also covers influential theories from Erikson and Kohlberg, while highlighting how stress, income, and school environments contribute to a child’s social growth. Watch the full podcast summary above or continue reading for an in-depth guide to how middle childhood shapes social identity and moral understanding. The Nature of the Child Erikson’s Industry vs. Inferiority During middle childhood, children enter Erikson’s industry vs. inferiority stage. They strive to become competent and gain a realistic self-concept thr...