Stages in Human Development

Question 1

conception to birth; shortly after conception, a single-celled organism grows and multiplies; this is the period of the most rapid physical development as basic body structures and organs form, grow, and begin to function

Answer 1

prenatal

Question 2

birth to 2 years; is equipped with senses that help it to learn about the world; physical growth occurs and motor, perceptual, and intellectual skills develop; show advances in language comprehension and use, problem solving, self-awareness, and emotional control; become more independent and interested in interacting with other children and form bonds with parents and others

Answer 2

infancy and toddlerhood

Question 3

2 to 6 years; growing steadily, muscles strengthen, and become better at coordinating their bodies; memory, language, an imagination improve; become more independent and better able to regulate emotions; family remains primary social tie but new ties to peers become established

Answer 3

early childhood

Question 4

6 to 11 years; growth slows but strength and athletic ability increase dramatically; show improvements in ability to reason, remember, read, and use arithmetic; learn to understand themselves in more complex ways; as friendships develop, peers and group memberships become more important

Answer 4

middle childhood

Question 5

11 to 18 years; bodies grow rapidly; become physically and sexually mature; come immature thinking still persists but they can reason in sophisticated and adultlike ways; are driven to learn about themselves and begin the process of discovering who they are apart from their parents; peer groups increase importance

Answer 5

adolescence

Question 6

18 to 40 years; physical condition peaks and then shows slight declines with time; lifestyle choices play a large role in influencing health; most young adults join the workforce, marry or esta

Question 6

18 to 40 years; physical condition peaks and then shows slight declines with time; lifestyle choices play a large role in influencing health; most young adults join the workforce, marry or establish a long-term bond with a spouse, and become parents; the timing of these transitions vary; could contain emerging adulthood (18-25 years; sometimes to 29 years)

Answer 6

early adulthood

Question 7

40-65 years; people notice changes in vision, hearing, physical stamina, and sexuality; basic mental abilities, expertise, and practical problem-solving skills peak; career changes and family transitions require that the adults continue to refine their understandings of themselves

Answer 7

middle adulthood

Question 8

65 years and beyond; most older adults remain healthy and active; reaction time slows, and most older adults show a decline in some aspects of memory and intelligence, but an increase in expertise and wisdom compensates for losses; most older adult friendships are old friendships, and these tend to be very close and a source of support; adults adjust to retirement, changes in health, and personal losses, as well as search for meaning in their lives

Answer 8

late adulthood

Question 9

a process entailing the stopping of heartbeat, circulation, breathing, and brain activity

Answer 9

death