In this assignment we will look at theories such as Human Growth and Development, Loss and Change and Stress and Behaviour. We will look at how these theories underpin the health and social care practice. "The term growth and development both refers to dynamic process. Often used interchangeably, these terms have different meanings. Growth and development are interdependent, interrelated process. Growth generally takes place during the first 20 years of life.; development continues after that." (nursingcrib, 2008, pp.1) When we are born we start to grow until we are roughly 18, as soon as we stop growing we then develop into adults. Advocates for youth states "Human development is a lifelong process of physical, behavioral, cognitive, and emotional growth and change. In the early stages of life-from babyhood to childhood, childhood to adolescence, and adolescence to adulthood-enormous changes take place. Throughout the process, each person develops attitudes and values that guide choices, relationships, and understanding." (2015, pp.1) This theory focuses on how we develop and grow from the minute we are born to the second we die. It is a lifelong process and does include many factors. .
Erikson's theory of psychosocial development has eight stages throughout. These range from infancy to maturity. One of the psychosocial crisis is intimacy vs. isolation. McLeod states "Occurring in young adulthood (ages 18 to 40 yrs), we begin to share ourselves more intimately with others. We explore relationships leading toward longer term commitments with someone other than a family member. Successful completion of this stage can lead to comfortable relationships and a sense of commitment, safety, and care within a relationship. Avoiding intimacy, fearing commitment and relationships can lead to isolation, loneliness, and sometimes depression. Success in this stage will lead to the virtue of love.