Week 1 (Introduction to foundations of human development)

Question 1

The three dimensions of development

Answer 1

1. Biological processes
2. Socioemotional
3. Cognitive processes

Question 2

What is meant by biological processes in development

Answer 2

Changes in individual’s physical nature, (e.g. height, weight, hormonal, and motor skills(

Question 3

What is meant by socioemotional processes in development

Answer 3

Changes in individual’s relationships, personality and emotions (e.g. infant smiling, young child hitting playmates, developing a sense of self)

Question 4

What is meant by Cognitive processes in development

Answer 4

Changes in individual’s thought, intelligence, or language skills (e.g., creating 2 word sentences, imagining, finishing a puzzle

Question 5

What is nurture vs nature

Answer 5

Whether development is primarily influenced by nature (genetic blueprint) or nurture (environment)

Question 6

What is stability vs change

Answer 6

Stability: E.g., that if one is shy as a child, he/she would continue to be shy throughout life
Change: Perspective that potential for change exists throughout the lifespan

Question 7

What is continuity vs discontinuity

Answer 7

Whether development involves gradual cumulative change (continuity), or distinct stages (discontinuity)