3.2 Physical Development across Lifespan

teratogens

agents, such as chemicals and viruses, that can reach the embryo or fetus during prenatal development and cause harm

Fine motor coordination

using small muscle groups for controlled movements, particularly in object manipulation

Gross Motor coordination

using large muscle groups for controlled, goal-directed movements

Maturation

the internally programmed growth of a child

Reflexes

unlearned, organized involuntary responses that occur automatically in the presence of certain stimuli

Rooting reflex

a baby's tendency, when touched on the cheek, to turn toward the touch, open the mouth, and search for the nipple

Visual Cliff

a laboratory device for testing depth perception in infants and young animals

Critical Periods

Specific Periods in the developmental sequence during which physical, emotional or social milestone is developed and WILL NOT or cannot occur at a later date

Sensitive Period

Less specific period of development than the critical period. A longer and period of time for development to occur.

Imprinting

the process by which certain animals form attachments during a critical period very early in life

Growth Spurt

The relatively sudden and rapid physical growth that occurs during puberty, triggered by hormones. Ages 10-11 for girls and 11-12 for boys. Each body part increases in size on a schedule: Weight usually precedes height, and growth of the limbs precedes growth of the torso.

Puberty

the period of sexual maturation, during which a person becomes capable of reproducing

Primary Sex Characteristics

the body structures (ovaries, testes, and external genitalia) that make sexual reproduction possible

Secondary Sex Characteristics

non-reproductive sexual characteristics, such as female breasts and hips, male voice quality, and body hair

Menarche

onset of menstruation

Spermarche

first occurrence of ejaculation

Menopause

cessation of menstruation, the end of a woman's fertility