If you have studied developmental psychology, at some point you would likely have read about various stage theories. These are theories based on the assumption that personal growth/development is a process that involves distinct stages that can be characterized by qualitative changes in behaviour. As a result, various researchers have developed these theories into patterns that characterize areas such as moral, cognitive, psychosocial, and faith development.
Certain presumptions are involved when thinking about stages of development:
1. A ground plan: A pre-existent structure through which persons move.
2. Invariable sequence: One stage leading to the next; no stage can be skipped.
3. Integration of increasingly complex elements: Remains stable until challenged by something that doesn’t fit.
4. Interaction with the environment: Assumes that persons are engaged in the process.
5. A goal or end in mind: Moves toward a final level of integration.
As for strengths, stage theories offer an insightful approach to understanding the process of growth and its goals. Some weaknesses include suggesting that the stages are invariant or sequential.
Greg Ogden (2003) offers some stages for how Jesus prepared his disciples to take on the role of apostles. It is an especially interesting way to visualize the journey and key questions people might wrestle with as they grow in greater levels of faith and ministry.
References:
Ogden, Greg. (2003). Transforming Discipleship: Making Disciples A Few At A Time. Downers Grove, ILL: InterVarsity Press, 82.
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