Peter is 6 years old - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 13 - 2021 - Paper 2

Peter’s development may have affected his behavior in several ways, particularly through factors such as attachment and social interaction.

Autism and Developmental Disorders

Research indicates that autism is more prevalent in boys, leading to communication and social interaction difficulties. Peter’s struggles in communicating and engaging in imaginative play might suggest he exhibits signs consistent with autism. This condition can severely limit a child's ability to interact successfully with peers and grasp their perspectives.

Role of Responsive Care

The EPPE study (2004) emphasizes the importance of quality day care in fostering a child's social development. Since Peter was primarily cared for by his mother, it is essential to consider if she provided a sensitively responsive environment. A nurturing attachment may promote social competence, whereas a lack of it could lead to strife in peer engagement.

Impact of Maternal Absence

Peter’s mother experienced difficulty in managing tasks leading to instances where he was left to cry. Such deprivation of responsive care may result in separation anxiety and emotional dysregulation. Children often perform better when they receive nurturing and consistent caregiving, and interruptions to this attachment, as Peter experienced during his mother's limitation to visit him in the hospital, may further exacerbate his behavior issues.

Conclusion

In summary, Peter's developmental challenges emerge from a combination of potential autistic traits, possibly inconsistent maternal responses, and the emotional ramifications of his mother's absence during illness. These factors collectively might hinder his ability to interact socially and engage fully in imaginative play.