Component 3 — Applied Option: Child Psychology

Van Leeuwen et al. (2008) - Heritability of Intelligence

Aim: Estimate genetic and environmental contributions to IQ across development using twin families. Sample: 112 Dutch twin families (monozygotic and dizygotic twins + parents). Findings: Heritability of intelligence estimated at 67%. No evidence of gene-environment interaction. Phenotypic variation mainly driven by additive genetic factors.

Gardner's Theory of Multiple Intelligences

Rejects single general intelligence (g-factor). Proposes 8 independent intelligences: Linguistic, Logical-Mathematical, Spatial, Musical, Bodily-Kinesthetic, Interpersonal, Intrapersonal, Naturalistic.

Ainsworth's Strange Situation & Attachment Types

Controlled observational procedure assessing infant attachment based on stranger/separation anxiety and reunion behavior. Classifications: Secure (Type B), Insecure-Avoidant (Type A), Insecure-Resistant (Type C).

Bowlby's Maternal Deprivation Hypothesis

Continuous disruption of primary attachment bond during critical period (first 2.5 years) leads to long-term irreversible psychological, intellectual, and emotional damage (e.g., Affectionless Psychopathy).

Hazan & Shaver (1987) - Adult Attachment

Developed 'Love Quiz' in newspaper. Found adult romantic relationships mirror infant attachment styles: Secure adults have trusting, long-lasting relationships; Avoidant adults fear intimacy; Anxious-Resistant adults experience jealousy and obsession.

Pine & Nash (2002) - Advertising & Children's Requests

Aim: Investigate link between exposure to commercial TV ads and children's Christmas wishlists. Sample: 83 children (4-5 yrs) in UK/US. Findings: Children who watched more commercial TV requested significantly more branded toys and made more total requests on their letters to Santa.

Buijzen & Valkenburg (2003) - Advertising & Parent-Child Conflict

Findings: Advertising exposure increases child product requests, leading to increased parent-child refusal conflict, disappointment, and materialism in children.

Strategies to Reduce Advertising Influence

1. Media Literacy Training (teaching children to recognize persuasive intent in ads) 2. Parental active mediation (discussing ad motives while watching) 3. Banning food/toy advertising directed at under-12s.