The decision to take either developmental psychology or abnormal psychology first depends on your specific interests and educational goals. Both areas of psychology are valuable and can provide unique insights into human behavior and mental processes.
If you are studying psychology and are just starting your coursework, taking developmental psychology first could be a good choice. Developmental psychology focuses on the study of human development across the lifespan, from infancy to old age. It explores how individuals change and grow physically, cognitively, emotionally, and socially. Understanding human development is fundamental to comprehending the basis of behavior and mental processes at different life stages.
On the other hand, abnormal psychology deals with the study of psychological disorders and atypical patterns of behavior, thoughts, and emotions. This field helps to understand mental health issues, their causes, and their treatment. Abnormal psychology can be a fascinating subject for many students, but having a solid foundation in developmental psychology may provide you with a broader context for understanding psychological disorders and their impact on individuals across different ages.
If your curriculum allows flexibility, you may want to consider taking both courses at some point, regardless of the order. Each field complements the other, and understanding human development can be beneficial in understanding abnormal psychology, and vice versa.
Ultimately, consider your interests, long-term educational plans, and any prerequisites or recommendations from your academic institution when making your decision. If you're unsure, you can also consult with academic advisors or professors for guidance tailored to your specific situation.