Week 2 - Biological Foundations of Development Flashcards
Who was Jean Piaget?
An influential figure in developmental psychology known for his theories on cognitive development
Piaget’s work changed the understanding of human thinking and problem solving.
What are the key principles of Piaget’s theory?
Thinking develops in increasingly complex stages, each incorporating and revising previous stages
Piaget’s cognitive stages and developmental processes are detailed in his theory.
What three processes does Piaget believe are involved in cognitive development?
- Direct learning
- Social transmission
- Maturation
These processes facilitate the transition from one stage of thinking to the next.
Define ‘scheme’ according to Piaget.
A systematic pattern of thoughts, actions, and problem-solving strategies that helps deal with intellectual challenges
Schemes evolve as individuals encounter new experiences.
What is direct learning?
Learning that results from actively responding to and interpreting new problems based on existing patterns of thought
This is a key component of Piaget’s view on cognitive development.
What is assimilation?
The process of interpreting and responding to new experiences in terms of existing schemes
An example is a baby using her sucking scheme from breast feeding to suck from a bottle.
What is accommodation?
The process of changing existing schemes when faced with new ideas or situations
For example, a child learns to differentiate between a truck and a car.
What is adaptation in Piaget’s theory?
The interplay of assimilation and accommodation that results in the deepening or broadening of schemes
Adaptation helps individuals adjust their thinking as they encounter new experiences.
What is social transmission?
The process through which one’s thinking is influenced by learning from social contacts and observation of others
This differs from direct experience and is a key aspect of Piaget’s theory.
What does maturation refer to in Piaget’s theory?
Biologically determined changes in physical and neurological development that occur independently of specific experiences
Maturation is essential for certain cognitive abilities, such as naming objects.
True or False: Piaget’s theory acknowledges that cognitive development continues after adolescence.
False
Piaget’s theory does not recognize that cognitive development extends beyond adolescence.
What are some criticisms of Piaget’s theory?
- Inconsistent task mastery at different developmental points
- Cognitive performance varies on similar tasks
- Overemphasis on logical aspects of thinking
- Neglect of social, emotional, and cultural factors
These shortcomings suggest that Piaget’s model may not fully capture cognitive development.
In which of the following parts of the anatomy is puberty initiated?
Hypothalamus
What causes the hypothalamus to increase GnRH production?
Reaching a threshold of body fat
Does The release of FSH and LH influences production of Androgens and Estrogens?
Yes
The adolescent growth spurt typically occurs___ years earlier in girls than in boys:
2
________________________ is when the adolescent growth spurt is at its maximum.
Peak height velocity
Primary sex characteristics include:
Gametes and sex organs
Have Researchers have noted that there may be some cultural factors that lead to differences in physical strength and athletic ability once girls and boys reach adolescence?
Yes
Are Secondary sex characteristics are considered those that directly relate to reproduction?
No
__________ tends to begin earlier in cultures where good nutrition and medical care are widely available
Puberty
Is Emerging adulthood is typically considered the healthiest and most physically optimal stage of life?
Yes
Is Reaction time is better during emerging adulthood?
Yes
