Conceptualising development (W1, L1) Flashcards
What is development?
Systematic changes and continuities in an individual that occurs between conception and death.
Systematic = orderly and patterned (not fleeting). Continuities = remain the same or reflect the past.
What are the three main categories of developing?
Physical, Cognitive, Psychosocial
. Cognitive refers to mental processes, including memory changes and information retention.
. Psychophysical refers to the self, and social & interpersonal interactions
What are the subcategories of development?
- Perceptual
- Moral
- Brain
- Social
- Action
- Emotional
- Cognitive
These subcategories are linked and can impact each other.
What does development include?
Gains, losses, neutral changes, and continuity.
Development isn’t a fixed concept; it can differ across time and culture.
How can nature and nurture contribute to developmental changes?
Genes can constrain experiences, while gene expression can be modified by experiences, such as environmental factors (epigenetic effects).
This highlights the interplay between genetics and environment.
What are the four systems in Bronfenbrenner’s Bioecological Model?
- Microsystems
- Mesosystem
- Exosystem
- Macro system
These systems represent different layers of an individual’s environment.
What is the aim of describing in developmental psychology?
Comparing “normal” development vs individual differences in the participant being studied.
This forms the foundation for further analysis in developmental psychology.
What does explaining involve in developmental psychology?
Typical vs individual different development and understanding why and how these changes have occurred.
This is crucial for understanding the mechanisms behind development.
What is the purpose of predicting in developmental psychology?
To forecast outcomes based on explanations of changes and to anticipate effects of interventions.
Accurate predictions can help in planning effective developmental strategies.
What does optimizing refer to in developmental psychology?
Improve development and prevent difficulties based on learned information.
This aims to enhance positive developmental outcomes.
How can cross-cultural perspectives influence development?
Differences in culture can lead to differences in development.
Recognizing cultural influences is essential for a holistic understanding of development.
What are some cultural differences in development?
Legal definitions e.g. legal age to drink
Is development a fixed concept?
No. It can differ across time & culture 1-2 weeks - 1-2 years or countries “legal age adults”
What does Bronfenbrenner’s bioecological model emphasize?
Biology & environment interaction producing development. (Nature & Nurture)
Microsystem
immediate physical and social environment
Mesosystem
linkages between microsystems
Exosystem
linkages between social system
Chronosystem
changes occur in a timeframe
The Interplay of Nature and Nurture
