Maturation Theory (Gesell)

In the early 20th century clinical psychologist and paediatrician Arnold Gesell developed a theory of child development, based on observations of children who followed both normal and exceptional patterns of behaviour. He made observations from birth to adulthood. This research influenced what we know about developmental milestones.

Key Principles of Gesell's Maturation Theory:

• Children develop through similar and predictable sequences. However, Gesell noticed that they did so at their own pace, and suggested this development starts to occur before the child’s birth.
• The pace that the individual develops through the sequences is influenced by internal factors, such as physical and mental development and genetics.
• He disagreed with theorists who suggested that development was solely down to environmental factors.
• If a child experienced delayed development that, according to Gesell, would be due to heredity.
• A child should only be taught to complete tasks when they are physically and mentally ready to do so. Teaching a child to do something that is in advance of their developmental age would do them more harm.

Application of Gesell's Maturation Theory:

Children display a range of behaviour in cycles.

18 months to 4 ½ years: The child experiences temper tantrums. They do become more easy-going, but end the stage still experiencing emotional outbursts.

5 to 8 years: The child becomes more confident in who they are and can make friends. According to the theory, at the age of 7 the child becomes fearful, but they end the stage as outgoing children.

9 to 17 years: The child displays many worries and anxieties during the odd numbered years, but during the even numbered years of 12, 14 and 16 they are more positive and energetic.

Criticisms of Gesell's Maturation Theory:

• Psychologists, such as Piaget, argue that the child is influenced more by the environment they live in.
• More recent research has suggested that Gesell’s milestones are incorrect. We now know that babies can follow moving objects at an earlier age than Gesell thought.
• Gesell only used white, middle class parents and their children in his sample.