Human Growth and Development
Description of the Examination
The Human Growth and Development examination (Infancy, Childhood, Adolescence, Adulthood, and Aging) covers material that is generally taught in a one-semester introductory course in developmental psychology or human development. An understanding of the major theories and research related to the broad categories of physical, cognitive, and social development is required, as is the ability to apply this knowledge.
The examination contains approximately 90 questions to be answered in 90 minutes. Some of these are pretest questions that will not be scored. Any time candidates spend on tutorials and providing personal information is in addition to the actual testing time.
Knowledge and Skills Required
Questions on the test require candidates to demonstrate one or more of the following abilities:
- Knowledge of basic facts and terminology
- Understanding of generally accepted concepts and principles
- Understanding of theories and recurrent developmental issues
- Applications of knowledge to particular problems or situations
The subject matter of the Human Growth and Development examination is drawn from the following categories. For each category, several key words and phrases identify topics with which candidates should be familiar. The percentages next to the main categories indicate the approximate percentages of exam questions in those categories.
| 10% | Theoretical Perspectives
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| 5% | Research strategies and methodology
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| 10% | Biological development throughout the life span
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| 7% | Perceptual development throughout the life span
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| 12% | Cognitive development throughout the life span
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| 8% | Language development
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| 4% | Intelligence throughout the life span
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| 10% | Social development throughout the life span
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| 8% | Family, home, and society throughout the life span
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| 8% | Personality and emotion
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| 8% | Learning
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| 5% | Schooling, work, and interventions
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| 5% | Atypical development
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Study resources
Most textbooks used in college-level human growth and development courses cover the topics outlined above, but the approaches to certain topics and the emphasis given to them may differ. To prepare for the Human Growth and Development exam, it is advisable to study one or more college textbooks, which can be found in most college bookstores. When selecting a textbook, check the table of contents against the "Knowledge and Skills Required" for this test.
You may find it helpful to supplement your reading with books and articles listed in the bibliographies found in most developmental psychology textbooks. In addition, many college faculty members post their course materials on their school websites, and there are a number of educational websites that contain useful resources organized by subject.
Parents and others who work with children may have gained some preparation for this test through experience. However, knowledge of the basic facts, theories, and principles of child psychology and development is necessary to provide background for taking the exam.
