MY LIFESPAN

DIGITAL ALBUM
A trip down
lifespan development avenue

Justine L. Borito
Ab Psychology 1B
 In fa n c y
During my infancy, my health was frail, and I was often unwell. This sickly state
significantly influenced my early development.From infancy, my development
reflected my need to adapt and self-soothe. Like many infants, I had a strong
sucking reflex and often relied on a pacifier for comfort. This natural behavior is
vital for both feeding and self-soothing, was an early indication of my ability to
seek out coping mechanisms in the face of stress.

However, being a bottle-fed infant rather than breastfed impacted my

health and well-being during infancy. I was deprived of the chance to
receive the numerous health benefits and optimal nutrition provided by
breast milk, as my mother chose not to breastfeed. This deprivation,
though significant, did not hinder my resilience and ability to thrive.
 In fa n c y
Moreover, my temperament in infancy posed challenges for caregivers. I was often
difficult to manage, as I prioritized wandering off whenever we went places and
detested being held by strangers. My tendency to become irritated and cry aloud
exacerbated the challenges of caregiving, requiring patience and understanding
from those around me.
In fa n c y
In fa n c y
 E a rl y
During my early childhood years, I continued to navigate the challenges

Ch i l d h o o d
posed by my health while also experiencing significant developments in
various aspects of my life. Despite the lingering effects of my illness in
infancy, I began to explore the world around me with increasing curiosity
and vigor.

My father became a crucial figure in my life, taking on the role of

my primary caregiver and first teacher. He introduced me to picture
books and DVD movies, which captivated my young mind and laid
a strong foundation for my cognitive development.
 E a rl y
i l d h o o d
As a young child, I exhibited the acquisition of object permanence
Ch
through various behaviors. For instance, my father would playfully
pretend to perform magic tricks inspired by characters from my favorite
movies. He would claim that he could make my toy Lego vanish right
before my eyes. Despite the disappearance of the toy, I would actively
search for it, indicating my understanding that objects continue to exist
even when they are not visible.

Another aspect of my early childhood is the emergence of symbolic play,

also known as pretend play.
 E a rl y
i l d h o o d
According to Piaget, symbolic play emerges during the preoperational
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stage (2-7 years) and reflects children's ability to mentally represent
objects and engage in imaginative activities. During my early childhood
years, I engaged in imaginative play scenarios, such as pretending to be a
princess, an animal, a villain, or a superhero.

This form of play allowed me to explore different roles and

perspectives, demonstrating my growing capacity for symbolic
thought and creativity. It also contributed to the development of
language skills, social competence, and emotional regulation.
 E a rl y
Ch i l d h o o d
My experiences during early childhood reflect Erik Erikson's
psychosocial theory of development, particularly the stage of autonomy
vs. shame and doubt (1-3 years). According to Erikson, children in this
stage develop a sense of autonomy and independence as they explore
their environment and assert their will.

I also exhibited signs of autonomy by asserting my preferences, making

choices, and engaging in self-directed activities. However, challenges in
navigating independence and autonomy might have also led to feelings of
shame or doubt if my efforts were met with criticism or disapproval from
my family.
 E a rl y
Ch i l d h o o d
 E a rl y
Ch i l d h o o d
 Mi dd l e
In my middle childhood, I developed a range of skills and interests, including

Ch i l d h o o d
writing, drawing, and other forms of artistic expression. I found joy in creating
stories and illustrations, spending countless hours immersed in my imagination.
Moreover, I developed a keen passion for music.
I frequently indulged in singing along to my favorite tunes and even learned to
play the guitar, guided by my father's tutelage.

All of which aligns with Erik Erikson's theory of industry versus

inferiority. This theory suggests that children at this stage are
focused on developing competence and skills, and I definitely
resonated with that. I poured myself into creative activities like
writing, drawing, and music, finding solace and a sense of
accomplishment in these pursuits.
 Mi dd l e
However, amidst these positive developments, my relationship with my mother

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was a constant source of turmoil. Her unpredictable behavior and harsh criticism
left me feeling inadequate and fearful. I vividly remember incidents where even
small accidents would set her off, and her relentless anger would make me
question my worth. These experiences mirrored elements of attachment theory, as
proposed by John Bowlby.

I felt like I was constantly seeking her approval and validation,

yet her emotional manipulation and lack of support only left me
feeling more isolated and vulnerable. It was a constant battle
between wanting her love and feeling like I could never truly earn
it.
 Mi dd l e
Moreover, these experiences also affected how I saw myself and the world

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around me. The repeated criticism and manipulation planted seeds of doubt and
insecurity, leading to negative beliefs about myself and my abilities. It was like I
was stuck in a cycle of learned helplessness, where I felt powerless to change my
circumstances.

Despite these challenges, my creative outlets became my refuge.

Writing, drawing, and immersing myself in books allowed me to
escape the chaos at home and find moments of peace and control.
They were more than just hobbies; they were my lifeline, helping
me cope with the emotional turmoil and find a sense of purpose
amidst the chaos.
 Mi dd l e
Ch i l d h o o d
 Mi dd l e
Ch i l d h o o d
 Adol e s c e n c e
As I entered adolescence, the turbulent dynamics within my family continued to
shape my development, impacting my sense of identity and self-esteem. Erik
Erikson's theory of identity versus role confusion resonated with me during this
period, as I grappled with questions of who I was and where I belonged.

My relationship with my mother remained strained, marked

by moments of intense conflict and emotional manipulation.
Her expectations seemed to grow more demanding, fueling
a sense of pressure and uncertainty about my own
capabilities.
 Adol e s c e n c e
I felt caught between wanting her approval and asserting my independence,
a struggle that echoed Erikson's concept of identity formation during
adolescence. In addition to familial challenges, I faced the typical upheavals
of adolescence, including peer pressure, academic stress, physical changes,
and emerging romantic interests. These experiences tested my resilience and
forced me to confront difficult questions about my values and aspirations.

The transition into adolescence brought about a profound

shift in my demeanor and outlook on life.
 Adol e s c e n c e
The productive and talented self I once knew became overshadowed by
feelings of hatred and aggression. These tumultuous years, spanning from
ages 13 to 15, were marked by a profound loss of motivation and passion for
my past achievements. Instead of embracing my talents and creativity, I
found myself consumed by anger and despair, struggling with suicidal
thoughts and impulsive behavior.

Jean Piaget's theory of cognitive development also provides

insights into my adolescent journey.
 Adol e s c e n c e
While I grappled with abstract thinking and problem-solving, I also faced
challenges in applying these cognitive skills to navigate the emotional and
social turmoil of adolescence. The gap between cognitive advancement and
emotional maturity posed a significant challenge during this transformative
period.

Moreover, the passing of my father during adolescence

exacerbated my emotional struggles, leaving me grappling
with profound grief and insecurity. With his guidance and
support no longer accessible, I felt adrift and alone, lacking
the familial foundation necessary for navigating the
complexities of adolescence.
 Adol e s c e n c e
As I navigated the complexities of adolescence, I began to recognize the
importance of self-discovery and authenticity. Carl Rogers' person-centered
theory resonated with me during this time, emphasizing the importance of
congruence between one's self-concept and lived experiences. I realized that
true growth and fulfillment came from embracing my unique identity and
values, rather than conforming to external expectations.

Despite the challenges I faced, adolescence also brought

moments of growth and resilience. The passing of my father,
while devastating, forced me to confront life's uncertainties and
cultivate inner strength.
Adol e s c e n c e
Adol e s c e n c e
Adol e s c e n c e
Adol e s c e n c e
Adol e s c e n c e
Adol e s c e n c e
“In the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the
life in your years.”

— Abraham Lincoln

Thank you, and see you again in the next

avenue!