Chapter 3: Developing Through the Life Span

What does developmental psychology study?

It studies physical, cognitive, and social changes across the lifespan.

What is a longitudinal study?

A research method that follows the same people over time.

What is a cross-sectional study?

A research method that compares different age groups at one point in time.

What are the three major issues in development?

Nature vs. Nurture, Continuity vs. Stages, Stability vs. Change.

What does 'nature vs. nurture' refer to in developmental psychology?

It refers to how genes and experiences shape us.

What is the difference between continuity and stages in development?

One refers to gradual development, while the other refer to distinct phases of development.

What does stability vs. change in development focus on?

It focuses on which traits persist over time.

Who studied cognitive development in children?

Jean Piaget.

What did Lawrence Kohlberg study?

He studied moral development.

What is Erik Erikson known for?

He developed the psychosocial development theory.

What is a zygote?

A fertilized egg (0-2 weeks).

What is an embryo?

A developing organism (2-8 weeks).

What stage follows the embryo in prenatal development?

Fetus (9 weeks and beyond).

What are teratogens?

Harmful substances that can affect fetal development, such as alcohol and drugs.

What is the first stage in Piaget’s stages of cognitive development?

Sensorimotor (0-2 years).

What is the main focus of the preoperational stage?

Symbolic thinking and egocentrism (2-7 years).

What characterizes the concrete operational stage?

Logical thinking about concrete events (7-11 years).

What develops during the formal operational stage?

Abstract and moral reasoning (12+ years).

What is a schema?

A mental framework or cognitive structure that helps people organize and interpret information.

What is assimilation in psychological terms?

The process of fitting new information into an existing schema.

What is accommodation in psychology?

The process of modifying or creating a new schema for new information.

What does 'theory of mind' refer to?

Understanding that others have thoughts and feelings different from one’s own.

What is the effect of secure attachment?

It leads to healthier relationships in adulthood.

What parenting style is associated with the best outcomes?

Authoritative parenting.

What is the first stage of Erikson’s psychosocial development?

Trust vs. mistrust (infancy).

What is the outcome of authoritative parenting?

High self-esteem, self-discipline, and social competence.

What does the outcome of authoritarian parenting lead to?

Low self-esteem, obedient but anxious behavior.

What is a consequence of permissive parenting?

Impulsive behavior and poor self-discipline.

What can result from negligent parenting?

Poor social skills and low self-worth.

What is the significance of the trust vs. mistrust stage?

If needs are met, the infant develops trust; if not, they develop mistrust.

What is the outcome of the autonomy vs. shame and doubt stage?

Encouraged independence leads to confidence; overcontrol leads to doubt.

What does the initiative vs. guilt stage involve?

Encouraging exploration fosters initiative; discouragement leads to guilt.

In the industry vs. inferiority stage, what builds competence?

Success in school and activities.

What does integrity vs. despair focus on in late adulthood?

Reflecting on life with satisfaction or regret.