Cross-Cultural Infant Observation

Catalog description

In this class, students learn about the sociocultural matrix of infant development through sensitive, structured observation of a primary caretaker-infant pair over time, with ongoing class discussion of observations and of the process of observation. Cultural universals and cultural variability are considered in terms of students’ observations of societal/parental expectations, feeding, sleeping arrangements, attachment, separation, interaction, crying, playing, and risk. The physical development of the infant, emotional and cognitive development and the student’s own experience is investigated. Generally offered in Spring and Fall Quarters. Required for students in MFT Child Studies Specialization; may also be open to others.