In this writing assignment, students will choose an episode/scene from a television show or movie in which at least one ofthe main characters is a childor an adolescene.

Assignment: In this writing assignment, students will choose an episode/scene from a television show or movie in which at least one of the main characters is a child or an adolescent. The film or show should highlight an individual with a diverse background. Students will summarize the scene, and analyze the individual and contextual influences portrayed. Students will apply course concepts, research, and relevant theories to explain the experiences of the character. Next, students will reflect on whether the depiction is realistic, how it illustrates or deviates from course material, and how it is similar to or different from their own experiences.

5-6 pages

Introduction: .5-1 page

The introduction should introduce the reader to the child/adolescent you have observed. The introduction should begin with a description of the participant (age, ethnicity, other demographic information). You should also introduce the major concepts broadly.

Application to Course Concepts: 2 pages

Incorporate four course concepts, research, and theories. Each should be accurately explained and a description of the child/adolescent’s behaviors should be provided. Be sure to provide specific examples and appropriate text references, with page numbers. For example, (Arnett, 2012, p. X).

Evaluation of Research Findings: 1 page

In this section, you will integrate empirical research into selected aspects of the paper. It may be helpful to summarize the research before integrating the results. Use one empirical article addressing research related to any course concept that you identified in the child/adolescent. This article must come from a peer-reviewed journal. Elements to include in your evaluation of the study:

1. Participants of the study
2. Purpose of the study
3. Integration of the findings: How the findings of the research help you to better understand the behavior of children/adolescents.
4. Who will benefit from knowing the research finding? (e.g., parents, teachers, therapists). Keeping that in mind, how useful is the article in understanding children/adolescents/families?

Conclusion and Synthesis: 1-2 pages

Finally, reflect on:

1. Was the depiction of the child/adolescent realistic?
2. How does it illustrate or deviate from course material?
3. How is it similar to or different from your own personal and family experiences?
4. Discuss issues pertaining to working with diverse groups regarding diversity and ethics.