The Developmental Psychology Laboratory from the Department of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Babes-Bolyai University, is a research group interested in the domain of developmental science.
Our group investigates different aspects of children’s and adolescents’ cognitive, social and emotional development. We study typical as well as atypical developmental trajectories. Most of our studies have focused on children from birth to 6-7 years of age, because many of the fundamental abilities for optimal cognitive and emotional functioning (e.g., working memory, attention, categorization, inhibition, emotion regulation abilities) develop rapidly in this period (early childhood). Recently, our studies have begun to target middle childhood and adolescence as well. In the area of atypical development, an important research line is the study of cognitive functioning in children with high levels of anxiety. The main goal of our studies is to understand the mechanisms of development. This can have an important role in helping to optimize development, to prevent the onset of various disorders and to intervene in atypical cases.
Apart from fundamental research, our group was involved in organizing different scientific events (summer schools, conferences) and in the popularization of science (e.g., Brain Awareness Week). The purpose of these activities is to build connections with other research centers and with professionals who work with children in different areas (education, health, family).
Students (BA, MA) interested in this domain have been constantly offered the possibility to participate in the abovementioned activities.
NEW EVENT: http://embodiedcognition2020.devpsychology.ro/