FTCE Reading K-12 Practice Exam

Which theorist is known for investigating how culture and interpersonal communication guide child development?

1. Jean Piaget

2. Lev Vygotsky

3. Sigmund Freud

4. Erik Erikson

The correct answer is: Lev Vygotsky

Lev Vygotsky is the theorist recognized for exploring the significant role that culture and interpersonal communication play in child development. His sociocultural theory emphasizes that cognitive development is largely influenced by social interactions and cultural context. Vygotsky introduced concepts such as the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD), which describes the difference between what a child can do independently and what they can achieve with guidance from more knowledgeable others, highlighting the importance of collaborative learning within a cultural framework. In contrast, other theorists focus on different aspects of development. For example, Jean Piaget primarily centers on cognitive development stages and how children understand the world through active exploration. Sigmund Freud's theories are rooted in psychosexual development and the influence of unconscious processes. Erik Erikson is known for his psychosocial stages of development, which emphasize emotional crises throughout the lifespan but do not specifically focus on the cultural and communicative aspects that Vygotsky addresses.