What to Expect on the CLEP Human Growth and Development Exam

The CLEP Human Growth and Development exam is your chance to earn college credit by demonstrating your understanding of the key stages of life—from infancy through old age. Covering physical, cognitive, and social development, this exam emphasizes major theories, research findings, and the ability to apply that knowledge to real-life scenarios. With about 90 questions to complete in 90 minutes, you’ll need more than just recall—you’ll be expected to understand core principles and apply developmental concepts across the lifespan. The exam is aligned with DSM-5 classifications and terminology. This guide will break down the content areas, study strategies, and a 3-week study plan to help you succeed.

3-Week Study Plan

Week 1: Theoretical Foundations & Early Development

Focus on major theories and the early stages of physical and cognitive growth.

• Days 1–2: Study Freud, Erikson, Piaget, Vygotsky, and Bandura. Understand key debates: nature vs. nurture, continuity vs. stages. Review research methods in developmental psychology.
• Days 3–4: Learn about prenatal development: conception, teratogens, genetic influences. Cover infancy and toddlerhood: reflexes, sensory development, attachment, motor milestones.
• Days 5–6: Focus on early to middle childhood: physical growth, language acquisition, Piaget’s stages, parenting styles.
• Day 7: Light review or rest.

Week 2: Adolescence through Early Adulthood

Dive into identity development, risk behaviors, and early adult challenges.

• Days 8–9: Study puberty, brain development, Erikson’s identity stage, and peer dynamics. Review adolescent risk-taking and cognitive maturity.
• Days 10–11: Explore early adulthood: love, career, physical/cognitive changes, intimacy vs. isolation.
• Days 12–13: Review moral development theories (Kohlberg, Gilligan). Understand young adult transitions in education, relationships, and work.
• Day 14: Use flashcards or a summary guide to revisit tough topics.

Week 3: Middle Adulthood to Aging & Final Review

Cover the second half of the lifespan and begin review/testing.

• Days 15–16: Review middle adulthood: aging, family life, career, generativity vs. stagnation. Study late adulthood: dementia, retirement, Erikson’s final stage.
• Days 17–18: Take a full-length practice test. Focus on weak areas from test results.
• Days 19–20: Deep review of high-yield topics. Revisit DSM-5 developmental disorders.
• Day 21: Light review and relax before exam day.

Final Thoughts

Sticking to this structured plan will prepare you to confidently take the CLEP Human Growth and Development exam. Focus on understanding concepts, making connections to real-life examples, and giving yourself time to review. You’ve got this.

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