Intro to developmental psychology

Question 1

What is a theory

Answer 1

A set of beliefs aimed at explaining facts

Question 2

What is a learning theory?

Answer 2

Emphasises the role of experience

Question 3

What are the four major theories of developmental psychology ?

Answer 3

Learning theory, cognitive development , evolutionary , ecological

Question 4

What are the two key components of learning theory?

Answer 4

Behaviourism and SLT

Question 5

What does cognitive development focus on?

Answer 5

Focuses on the mind , thought processes, construction of knowledge and has roots in nativism.

Question 6

What did Jean Piaget liken children to?

Answer 6

Children are like scientists

Question 7

What are the four stages of cognitive development ?

Answer 7

1. Sensorimotor
2. preoperational
3. concrete operational
4. formal operational

Question 8

What is evolutionary psychology?

Answer 8

A school of thought that applies concepts of natural selection and adaptation to human behaviour.

Question 9

What does evolutionary psychology propose?

Answer 9

Seeks patterns of behaviour, and proposes critical periods

Question 10

What does ecological psychology stress?

Answer 10

Stresses the effect of context on development and emphasises child’s active role in selecting and influencing behaviours.