A4: Independence

Question 1

What is independence?

Answer 1

• involves doing things for oneself and making decisions without relying on others

Question 2

The development of independence through the life stages:
INFANCY

Answer 2

• depend on others for care
• will play alone but likes a familiar adult close by

Question 3

The development of independence through the life stages:
EARLY CHILDHOOD

Answer 3

• develops the necessary skills to become more independent in personal care
• develops likes and dislikes and can make limited decisions

Question 4

The development of independence through the life stages:
ADOLESCENC

Answer 4

• enjoys more freedom
• can make independent decisions (eg about lifestyle and education)
• emotions may affect ability to make independent decisions
• takes responsibility for own actions but is influenced by others

Question 5

The development of independence through the life stages:
EARLY ADULTHOOD

Answer 5

• may live with parents but is still independent
• makes own decisions about personal life and career
• often time for relationships, marriage and starting a family

Question 6

The development of independence through the life stages:
MIDDLE ADULTHOOD

Answer 6

• becomes increasingly independent
• increased freedom with life changes eg dependent children leave home ; retirement

Question 7

The development of independence through the life stages:
LATER ADULTHOOD

Answer 7

• continue to make own decisions
• may have financial constraints if relying on state pension
• changes in mental and physical capacity may gradually reduce ability to make own decisions and care for self

Question 8

What is independence influenced by?

Answer 8

• stage of social development
• stage of emotional development
• physical disability
• health
• culture