This course introduces students to the developmental, individual differences, relationship-based (DIR®) model. Lectures, readings, class discussions, and assignments allow students to learn about the DIR® theoretical framework, to understand how early experiences impact development, learning, mental health, and family dynamics. Evidence-based research and application of the model will be explored. Students will be provided with an interactive learning environment, sensitive to the principles of adult learning, to become familiar with the first 9 Functional Emotional Developmental Capacities (FEDCs) and Floortime® strategies. Students will apply DIR® thinking to personal and professional experiences across all capacities (FEDCs) to understand the interplay between development and individual differences in the context of relationships.