module 45 Flashcards
Developmental psychology
a branch of psychology that studies physical, cognitive, and social change throughout the life span
Zygote
the fertilized egg; it enters a 2-week period of rapid cell division and develops into an embryo
Embryo
the developing human organism from about 2 week after fertilization through the second month
Fetus
the developing human organism from 9 weeks after conception to birth.
Teratogens
agents, such as chemicals and viruses, that can reach the embryo or fetus during prenatal development and cause harm
(literally, “monster makers”)
Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS)
physical and cognitive abnormalities in children caused by a pregnant woman’s heavy drinking. In severe cases, signs include a small, out-of-proportion head and abnormal facial features
Habituation
decreasing responsiveness with repeated stimulation. As infants gain familiarity with repeated exposure to a stimulus, their interest wanes and they look away sooner.