Semester 2 psychology: Developmental psychology - Prenatal until preschool

Question 1

What are the various developmental stages:

Answer 1

 Prenatal Development
 Early and Middle Childhood
 Adolescence
 Adulthood

Question 2

Explain conception in the germinal stage

Answer 2

When a single sperm cell successfully
penetrates the ovum (egg), uniting their genetic material to create a unique zygote.
This marks the beginning of a new life.

Question 3

Explain cell division in the germinal stage

Answer 3

The process is called cleavage. The zygote divides into a cluster of cells known as a morula, which then forms a hollow ball of cells called a blastocyst.

Question 4

Explain implantation in the germinal stage

Answer 4

During implantation, the blastocyst embeds itself into the thickened lining of the uterus (the endometrium). This process establishes the foundation for the developing embryo and placenta and begins complex interactions between the mother and offspring.

Question 5

How does genetic Disorders affect prenatal development?

Answer 5

Inherited genetic mutations or chromosomal abnormalities can lead to congenital disorders, such as Down syndrome, cystic fibrosis, or sickle cell disease, impacting the fetus’s physical, cognitive, and developmental aspects.

Question 6

How does maternal nutrition affect prenatal development?

Answer 6

Adequate maternal nutrition is crucial for the proper growth and development of the fetus. Deficiencies in essential nutrients like folic acid, iron, or iodine can increase the risk of neural tube defects, anemia, or impaired brain development. Additionally, maternal obesity or malnutrition can negatively impact fetal growth and development.

Question 7

How can high levels of maternal stress affect the developing fetus?

Answer 7

High levels of maternal stress—whether physical, emotional, or psychological—can trigger the release of stress hormones like cortisol, which may disrupt fetal brain development and increase the risk of preterm birth or low birth weight. Chronic stress during pregnancy is also linked to developmental delays, behavioral issues, and cognitive impairments in the child.

Question 8

How do the cultural, socioeconomic, and family environments affect prenatal development?

Answer 8

The cultural, socioeconomic, and family environments significantly influence prenatal development. Access to quality healthcare, educational resources, and supportive social networks can positively impact fetal growth and development. In contrast, poverty, discrimination, or exposure to environmental toxins can have detrimental effects on the developing fetus.

Question 9

What are the potential effects of using recreational drugs, alcohol, or certain prescription medications during pregnancy?

Answer 9

The use of recreational drugs, alcohol, or certain prescription medications during pregnancy can lead to serious consequences for the developing fetus, including birth defects, growth restrictions, preterm birth, and various developmental and behavioral issues in the child.

Question 10

hat is the neonatal period, and why is it significant?

Answer 10

The neonatal period covers the first 28 days of life, a crucial time when the newborn makes rapid physiological and behavioral adjustments from the uterine environment to independent life.

Question 11

Explain the establishment of respiration during the Neonatal period.

Answer 11

The new-born’s lungs inflate for the first time, and the circulatory system undergoes significant changes.

Question 12

Explain the Thermoregulation during the Neonatal Period

Answer 12

The new-born must adapt to external temperatures and
maintain a stable body temperature.

Question 13

Explain the Digestive system during the Neonatal Period

Answer 13

The new-born’s digestive system adjusts to oral feeding and
the breakdown of nutrients.

Question 14

Explain sensory development: Vision.

Answer 14

Initially blurry, vision gradually improves over the first few weeks.

Question 15

Explain sensory development: Hearing

Answer 15

New-borns respond to sounds, particularly high-pitched voices

Question 16

Explain sensory development: Touch

Answer 16

Sensitive to touch and pain, touch is crucial for bonding and comfort.

Question 17

Explain sensory development: Taste

Answer 17

Can differentiate between sweet, sour, bitter, and salty tastes

Question 18

Explain sensory development: Smell

Answer 18

Well-developed sense of smell, especially for mother’s milk.

Question 19

Explain the behavioural patterns: Sleep cycle.

Answer 19

New-borns sleep for approximately 16-18 hours per day with frequent short naps.

Question 20

Explain the behavioural patterns: Feeding

Answer 20

Establishment of feeding patterns, whether breastfeeding or formula
feeding.

Question 21

Explain the behavioural patterns: Crying

Answer 21

A primary form of communication, indicating hunger, discomfort, or
overstimulation.

Question 22

Explain the behavioural patterns: Bonding

Answer 22

The crucial period for forming a strong attachment between parent and infant.

Question 23

What challenges and risks are associated with the neonatal period?

Answer 23

1) Prematurity: Babies born before 37 weeks of gestation face increased health risks.
2) Low birth weight: Babies born weighing less than 5.5 pounds can experience
difficulties.
3) Birth complications: Conditions like respiratory distress syndrome, jaundice, and
infections can occur.
4) New-born screening: Early detection of congenital disorders through new-born
screening is vital.

Question 24

What is the preschool period, and why is it important in a child’s development?

Answer 24

The preschool period, typically spanning from ages 2 to 5, is a pivotal stage in a child’s
development. It’s a time of rapid growth and learning across various domains.

Question 25

What are the Key Developmental Areas in regards to Physical Development?

Answer 25

While the rapid growth of infancy slows down, pre-schoolers continue to refine motor skills. They learn to run, jump, climb, and manipulate objects with increasing dexterity.

Question 26

What are the Key Developmental Areas in regards to Cognitive Development?

Answer 26

This period is characterized by significant advancements in
thinking and problem-solving. Children develop language skills rapidly, engage in imaginative play, and begin to understand concepts like numbers and colours.

Question 27

What are the Key Developmental Areas in regards to Social and Emotional Development?

Answer 27

Pre-schoolers are building social skills, learning to share, cooperate, and interact with peers. They also develop a sense of self and begin to understand emotions.

Question 28

What are the Key Developmental Areas in regards to Language Development.

Answer 28

Vocabulary expands exponentially, and children start to form complex sentences. They engage in conversations, ask questions, and enjoy
storytelling.