Development Through the Life Span

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts from the lecture on developmental psychology and life span development.

Developmental Psychology

The scientific study of how and why human beings change over the course of their life.

Nature vs. Nurture

The debate regarding the contribution of genetics (nature) and environment (nurture) to human development.

Longitudinal Studies

Research that follows the same group of people over time to study developmental changes.

Cross-Sectional Studies

Research that compares different individuals of varying ages to understand developmental differences.

Continuous Development Theories

Theories proposing that development is a gradual, ongoing process.

Stage Theories

Theories suggesting that development proceeds through a sequence of distinct stages.

Epigenetics

The study of how environmental factors can turn genes on or off without altering the DNA sequence.

Zygote

The fertilized egg that undergoes rapid cell division and develops into an embryo.

Teratogen

An agent that can cause malformation or harm to a developing embryo or fetus.

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS)

A condition resulting from heavy alcohol consumption during pregnancy that affects physical and mental development.

Object Permanence

The understanding that objects continue to exist even when they cannot be seen.

Egocentrism

A child's inability to see a situation from another person's point of view.

Theory of Mind (ToM)

The ability to understand that others have their own thoughts, beliefs, and perspectives distinct from one's own.

Attachment Theory

A psychological model describing the dynamics of long-term interpersonal relationships between humans.

Secure Attachment

A type of attachment characterized by comfort with closeness and secure base for exploration.

Authoritarian Parenting

A parenting style that is coercive and demanding, often leading to obedience without discussion.

Permissive Parenting

A parenting style that is indulgent and not demanding, leading to a lack of structure.

Authoritative Parenting

A balanced parenting style that is demanding yet responsive, encouraging open communication.

Neglectful Parenting

A parenting style characterized by a lack of involvement and responsiveness.