Physical Development and Cognitive Growth in Early Adulthood

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture notes on physical development, health, stress, coping, and cognitive growth during early adulthood.

What is the time frame for physical development and maturation in early adulthood?

Physical development and maturation occur from around age 20 to 40.

What is senescence?

Senescence is the natural physical decline brought about by aging.

At what age does the brain reach its maximum size and weight?

The brain reaches its maximum size and weight during early adulthood.

What are some exercise advantages during early adulthood?

Exercise enhances cardiovascular fitness, lung capacity, muscle strength, body flexibility, and reduces osteoporosis.

What is the leading cause of death in early adulthood?

Leading causes of death include AIDS, cancer, heart disease, and suicide.

What is secondary aging?

Secondary aging refers to physical declines brought about by environmental factors or behavioral choices.

What is one major dietary challenge faced by many young adults?

Many young adults do not adjust their diet as growth slows, leading to gradual weight gain.

What is the definition of disability?

Disability is a condition that substantially limits a major life activity.

What is stress?

Stress is the physical and emotional response to events that threaten or challenge us.

What are acute stressors?

Acute stressors are sudden, one-time events that can have serious effects on the body.

What is the primary appraisal in stress assessment?

Primary appraisal is the assessment of an event to determine whether its implications are positive, negative, or neutral.

What is emotion-focused coping?

Emotion-focused coping involves managing emotional reactions to a situation that cannot be changed.

What does resilience refer to in coping with stress?

Resilience is the ability to withstand, overcome, and thrive following profound adversity.

What is postformal thought?

Postformal thought is a recognition that adult problems often don’t have absolute right or wrong answers and must be solved based on the situation.

What is dualistic thinking according to William Perry?

Dualistic thinking is when individuals perceive issues in terms of right vs. wrong or good vs. bad.

What does Sternberg's theory of intelligence include?

Sternberg's theory divides intelligence into componential, experiential, and contextual intelligence.

What is the first-year adjustment reaction?

It is a cluster of psychological symptoms, including loneliness, anxiety, withdrawal, and depression, experienced by first-year college students.

What are some reasons for high college dropout rates?

Reasons include financial issues, life changes, and academic difficulties.