What is a 'Theory'?

"A theory is a logical system of concepts that helps explain observations and contributes to the development of a body of knowledge." (Newman & Newman, 2015, p.4)

An informal theory is a generalised explanation for why someone behaves in a certain way - this might be based on intuition, personal beliefs or lived experience. For example, from what we have seen in our lives, we might 'theorise' that people grow up to behave in a similar way to their parents. A formal scientific theory, on the other hand, "is a set of interconnected statements, including assumptions, definitions, and hypotheses, which explain and interpret observations" (Newman & Newman, 2015, p.4). Such theories covered in this module include Freud's theory of psychosexual development and Piaget's theory of cognitive development. 

Assumptions are the aspects of a theory which are assumed or believed to be true. For example, an assumption of Erikson's theory of psychosocial development is that human personality develops in stages. The hypothesis is the 'plot' of the theory: a testable 'if-then' prediction of behaviour (Newman & Newman, 2015). Theories are important because they attempt to give meaning to what we observe. They are also a basis for action - they help us find ways to improve the lives and education of individuals.

Theories of Human Development

According to Newman and Newman (2015) there are six broad questions that an effective theory of human development might explore: 

1. In what direction do we change as humans? In other words - what is the trajectory of our development?
2. What processes or mechanisms bring about growth across the lifespan? In other words, how do we account for the changes that occur?
3. How influential are early experiences on later development?
4. What are the impacts of environment and/or social factors on individual development?
5. What are the risk factors at different stages of development?
6. What are the practical applications of a given theory of human development? Here, one might consider prevention, intervention, or education.

On the following page you are going to take part in a discussion regarding these questions. Please note down which question is most important to you as a counsellor. For more information about each question, download the chapter below and look at page six: What do we expect from a theory of human development? 

Newman and Newman 2015.pdf