Class 1A Flashcards
Developmental Psychology
The branch of psychology that studies the changes, physical, mental, and behavioural, that occur from conception to old age and investigates the various biological, neurobiological, genetic, psychological, social, cultural, and environmental factors that affect development throughout the lifespan
Lifespan development
A field of study that examines patterns of growth, change, and stability in behaviour throughout the lifespan
Major Topical Areas of developmental Psychology
Physical development
Cognitive development
Personality and social development
Defining characteristics of Physical development
Emphasis of how brain, nervous system, muscles, sensory capabilities, and need for food, drink, and sleep affect behaviour
Defining characteristics of Cognitive development
Emphasizes intellectual abilities, including learning, memory, problem-solving, and intelligence
Defining characteristics of Personality and social development
Emphasizing enduring characteristics that differentiate one person from another, and how interactions with others and social relationships grow and change over the lifetime
What are the key Issues in the field of development
Continuous vs. discontinuous change
Critical periods vs. sensitive periods
Lifespan approach vs. sensitive periods
Nature vs. nurture
Continuous Change
Change is gradual
Achievement at one level builds on previous level
Discontinuous change
Change occurs in distinct steps
Behaviour and processes are qualitatively different at different changes
Critical Periods
Certain environmental stimuli are necessary for normal development
Emphasized by early developmentalists
Sensitive Period
People are susceptible to certain environmental stimuli, but the consequences of absent stimuli are reversible.
Current emphasis in lifespan development.
Lifespan approach
Current theories emphasize growth and change throughout life, the relatedness of different periods.
Focus on particular periods
Infancy and adolescence emphasized by early developmentalism as most important periods.
Nature (genetic factors)
Emphasis on discovering inherited genetic traits.
Nurture (environmental factors)
Emphasis is on environmental influences that affect a person’s development.
