Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Therapist Development Center Practice Exam

The developmental tasks of self-evaluation and skill learning are characteristic of which life stage?

1. Toddlerhood (2-4 years)

2. Early childhood (4-6 years)

3. Middle school (6-12 years)

4. Early adolescence (12-18 years)

The correct answer is: Middle school (6-12 years)

The developmental tasks of self-evaluation and skill learning are most characteristic of the middle school years, which typically encompass ages 6 to 12. This period is critical for cognitive and social development as children begin to build a stronger sense of self and gain a better understanding of their abilities and limitations. During middle school, children are usually experiencing significant growth in their cognitive skills, which allows them to engage in more complex thinking, including self-reflection and evaluation. They actively compare themselves to peers and begin to form self-concepts based on their skills, achievements, and social interactions. This period often involves learning new skills, such as academic subjects and social competencies, which are essential for their development and future success. Additionally, children in this age group typically start to receive more feedback about their work and behavior, prompting them to evaluate their progress and make adjustments as needed. This self-evaluation is crucial, as it helps them understand their strengths and areas where improvement is needed, impacting their motivation and goal setting moving forward. In contrast, the other life stages listed focus on different developmental tasks. Toddlerhood and early childhood emphasize basic cognitive and motor skills, while early adolescence shifts towards identity formation and more complex social relationships, rather than the foundational skills and