Women’s Growth and Development Across the Life Spans Flashcards
What are the three models of health discussed in this chapter?
Biomedical model: Individualistic and disease-oriented.
Social model: Focuses on culture, economic status, social interactions, and context in accessing healthcare.
Feminist model: Considers factors beyond physiology and genetics that influence women’s development.
What criticism do traditional models face regarding women’s development?
They were primarily based on studies of men, such as Erikson’s stages of psychosocial development and Kohlberg’s levels of moral development, which excluded or misapplied to women.
How do feminist theories challenge traditional models?
By emphasizing relationships and social expectations in forming a woman’s identity, offering alternatives to male-centered models.
What are the stages of adolescence?
Early adolescence (11–14 years)
Midadolescence (15–17 years)
Late adolescence (18–21 years)
What physical changes occur in adolescence for females?
Puberty, attainment of adult height/weight, breast development, adrenarche, and menarche.
What is menarche, and why is it significant?
Menarche marks reproductive and sexual potential, carrying physical, social, and emotional consequences.
What cognitive and psychosocial developments occur in adolescence?
Adolescents develop a sense of identity, autonomy, and moral reasoning, with peers playing a significant role.
What age range defines early adulthood?
Late adolescence (18 years) to perimenopausal years (35–50 years).
What are common challenges for women in early adulthood?
Balancing reproductive health, childbearing, career, stress, and unhealthy behaviors like poor nutrition or smoking.
What psychosocial crises do women face during early adulthood?
Intimacy vs. isolation: Forming life partnerships.
Generativity vs. stagnation: Caring for others, career development, and parenting.
What biological changes occur during midlife?
Decreasing estrogen levels lead to hot flashes, genital changes, breast structure shifts, and decreased skin elasticity.
How do psychosocial factors influence midlife?
Women may feel greater control over their lives and experience emotional well-being despite societal ageism.
What defines the stage of older women?
Women who have completed menopause, often navigating aging on limited incomes and caregiving roles.
What health challenges do older women face?
They contend with substantial health issues, ageism, sexism, and the need for resilience to maintain well-being.
What are key clinical concerns for female adolescents?
Pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections, mental health, and trust-building in healthcare.
