Developmental Psychologists are concerned specifically with the various social, physical, and mental processes that occur in an individuals lifetime, from infancy to old age. Areas of study include aging-related behavior and changes, abnormal developmental changes, and emotional development. Specialization in a specific period, like adolescence, middle age, or childhood, is possible.
Developmental psychologists work in a variety of settings, including academia, government agencies, health care facilities and schools. Those working in colleges and universities tend to focus primarily on research or teaching. Others working in applied settings, such as health care facilities or clinics, help to assess, evaluate and treat people living with developmental disabilities. Developmental psychologists may also work in assisted living homes for the elderly, hospitals, mental health clinics and centers for the homeless.
