Child Psychology explores the development of perception, communication, learning, memory, decision-making, persuasion, emotions, and social behavior in children. It also refers to the application of psychological techniques to this age group. The topic encompasses an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complexities of child development, and the various factors that influence it.

Child Psychology studies can do more than shed light on childcare misconceptions and ineffective parenting strategies—the subject is also critically important to understanding how human development progresses into adulthood. Particularly, Child Psychology is essential when used to foster resilience in children at risk. Learners who successfully apply Child Psychology concepts will be able to help children overcome traumatic experiences, thus increasing their likelihood to thrive in life.

According to research published by Columbia University, mental health issues can start early in a child’s life. Child Psychologists are essential to giving these children the care they need, as well as a number of other careers available to Child Psychology learners. These include School Psychologist, Developmental Psychologist, Academic Researcher, Family Therapist, Juvenile Offender Counselor, Child Mental Health Liaison, and many other professions focusing on the wellbeing of children.

Child Psychology courses provided through Coursera highlight researchers from various disciplines and backgrounds, and how they study child development. Learners get a glimpse into these scientists’ fields of knowledge, illustrating how the theories learned translate into practice.

Learners can also explore how trauma affects children and the systems they depend on. Diving in further, learners will gain insight into core concepts, research methods, and lessons learned in the last 50 years of resilience research, in addition to how this research is being applied in the real world through interventions that promote resilience. Learners will also have the opportunity to engage in discussions with others who are working with children at risk around the world.