Chapter 1 - The Science of Child Development

Question 1

How do child-development scientists use research findings to improve children’s lives?

Answer 1

Scientists with this research interest create working programs, serve as advocates for children (working alongside child advocacy groups), and ensure that family policy is based upon sound research: all of which helps sway policymakers and influence government policy regarding children.

Question 2

Which is the main professional organization for child-development researchers?

Answer 2

The main professional organization for child-development researchers is the SRCD (Society for Research in Child Development).

Question 3

Define: applied developmental science

Answer 3

A scientific discipline that uses developmental research to promote healthy development, particularly for vulnerable children and families.

Question 4

Define: baby biographies

Answer 4

Detailed, systematic observations of individual children that paved the way for objective, analytic research.

Question 5

What two events set the stage for the creation of child-development science? Explain.

Answer 5

The Industrial Revolution and Darwin’s Theory of Evolution. First, the horrendous work conditions that children faced in factories during the Industrial Revolution led to reform for child labour laws (limiting child labour and more kids in schools). Second, Darwin’s theory of evolution (1859) led other scientists to note age-related changes in human behaviour.

Question 6

Betty’s son, Will has a good nature and an outstanding academic record. How would scientists from each theory explain this?

Answer 6

Biological theorists would say this is largely a product of his biological endowment/heredity.