Whether you’re an educator, youth worker, mental health professional, parent or anyone seeking a deeper understanding of adolescent psychology and development, this course is ideal for you.
The Certificate in Adolescent Psychology is a professional development course that equips you with the skills to support adolescents through the psychological, physical, cognitive, and social changes they experience during this critical life stage.
In this adolescent psychology course, you will explore the biological and physical changes that impact behaviour, hormonal changes, growth patterns, and the importance of nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle. You’ll also learn theories from Piaget, Erikson, and Kohlberg on how adolescents think, develop morally, and navigate the process of identity formation.
You’ll discover how physical development influences self-image, mental health, and social interaction, as well as how to provide informed, age-appropriate support. You’ll also learn about emotional regulation, attachment theory, gender identity, communication, bullying, resilience and how to create inclusive and supportive environments.
On completion of this course, you’ll feel confident to support adolescents through the complex psychological, emotional and physical changes of their developmental journey.
Course Structure
Certificate of Adolescent Psychology
Unit 1: Introduction to Adolescent Psychology
- Introduction to adolescent psychology
- Definition and scope of adolescence
- Key development theories
- Jean Piaget: Cognitive development theory
- Adolescence as a distinct phase
- Erik Erikson: Psychosocial development theory
- Lawrence Kohlberg: Moral development theory
- Human development stages
Unit 2: Physical and Biological Development
- Physical and biological development
- Puberty and hormonal changes
- Physical growth patterns
- Physical development, behaviour, and self-image
- Supporting adolescents
- Nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle
Unit 3: Cognitive and Intellectual Development
- Cognitive and intellectual development
- Piaget’s formal operational stage
- Reasoning and problem-solving skills
- Educational challenges and learning styles
- Supporting adolescent learning
- Cognitive changes and identity formation
- Identity formation process
- Supportive environments
Unit 4: Emotional and Psychological Development
- Emotional and psychological development
- Emotional regulation
- Freud’s psychoanalytic theory
- Emotional regulation and executive function
- Social-emotional learning
- Attachment theory
- Neurobiological models
- Developmental systems perspective
- Mental health issues
- Supporting emotional wellbeing
- Additional support considerations
Unit 5: Social Development and Relationships
- Social development and relationships
- Family dynamics and parenting styles
- Peer influence and social networks
- Social identity
- Communication skills
- Bullying, social pressures, and resilience
Unit 6: Sexuality and Gender Identity
- Sexuality and gender identity
- Understanding sexual development
- Gender identity
- Gender roles and social learning
- Gender dysphoria and diversity
- Respectful communication
Unit 7: Moral Development and Decision Making
- Moral development and decision making
- Theories of moral reasoning
- Culture and environment
- Empathy and ethics
- Challenges around risk-taking
Unit 8: Challenges, Life Transitions, and Support Strategies
- Challenges, life transitions, and support strategies
- Identifying life crises
- Common adolescent problems
- Warning signs of crisis
- Delinquency, substance use and risk behaviours
- Transition into adulthood
- Communication and support strategies
Study Hours
Estimated duration 50 hours
Course Delivery and Start
Start anytime, self-paced and 100% online
Assessment
Assessment will be comprised of written exercises, including short-answer questions, reflective tasks, short reports and/or projects. There are no examinations or due dates for assessment. As a result, you can complete training in your own time and at your own pace with the assistance of unlimited tutor support.
Approval and Recognition
Australian Online Courses Pty Ltd is an approved and recognised member of IARC. The IARC is an International association that recognises quality and excellence in tertiary education providers.
Testimonials
Good content with clear expectations for required work and excellent support
J. Anderson, Parkside, SA | Certificate of Adolescent Psychology
Very structured content through different lessons and assignments
X. Su, Chiba, Chiba, Japan | Certificate of Adolescent Psychology
I found the course materials comprehensive and easily accessible, even for am older student who has not studied for some time and is not totally Au fait with technology. It was a pleasant and satisfying experience which I will no doubt immerse myself in again.
P. Cavanagh, Norval, VIC | Certificate of Adolescent Psychology
Graduation
A Certificate of Attainment and Statement of Results will be issued upon successful completion of this course.
How to Enrol
Enrolment Form – Employment Services and Rehabilitation Providers
Enrol via Live Chat (Business Hours)
Enrol via Telephone 1300 76 2221 (Business Hours)
Payment Options
Visa, Mastercard, BPAY and EFT/Direct Deposit. Please allow 1-2 Business days for processing for EFT and BPAY.
Course FAQs
Why Choose Australian Online Courses?
- Professional development that is widely recognised and respected;
- Improve your employment opportunities;
- Study online, anywhere via our elearning system;
- High-quality professional development programs written by industry experts;
- All course materials provided online – no textbooks to buy;
- Unlimited tutor support via email;
- We offer twelve (12) months’ access, with extensions available upon application (fees apply);
- Course may be tax deductible; see your tax advisor.
Are there any entry requirements or pre-requisites?
There are no course or subject pre-requisites for entry into our programs. However, our professional development programs are generally intended for people over the age of 18. In some circumstances, enrolments from younger people may be considered. Please complete the AOC Parent Guardian Consent Form prior to enrolling and submit here.
Are there any computer requirements?
To study online with Australian Online Courses you will need a computer (desktop PC/laptop) running a current/updated operating system with reliable high-speed internet access. You will need to use the Google Chrome browser to access your course.
When can I start this course?
You can start within 60 minutes during business hours when you enrol and pay in full with a credit card!
Credit card: Within 60 mins during business hours.
BPAY: Within 1-2 working days.
Internet Banking: Within 1-2 working days.
Cheque/Money Order: Upon receipt of mailed cheque.
How is this course delivered?
This course is delivered online via our easy-to-navigate Learning Management System (LMS), where you will discover interactive online learning/written content, resources and assessment.
Do I need to attend classes or undertake any work placements?
No. All courses are delivered online via our LMS and there are no work placement requirements in this course.
What support can I expect from Australian Online Courses?
Unlimited tutor support is available throughout your studies via email only during business hours Monday to Friday. Our Administrative team are available Monday to Friday via email, live chat and telephone.
I am an international student. Can I enrol into this course?
Yes! We accept enrolments from individuals both within Australia and internationally; location is no barrier to entry into our programs.
Career Pathways
Future growth
Strong
Unemployment
Low
Professional development for those wishing to gain an understanding of changes in life associated with teenage years and young adults.
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