Infancy and Early Childhood Development

These flashcards cover key concepts of early childhood development as discussed in the lecture, focusing on attachment theories and their implications.

What are Erickson's first three stages of development as discussed in the lecture?

The stages are trust versus mistrust, autonomy versus shame and doubt, and initiative versus guilt.

What does 'trust versus mistrust' mean in Erickson's theory?

It refers to the importance of consistent caregiving, where a infant learns to either trust their environment and caregivers or develop mistrust due to inconsistent responses.

What is a secure attachment?

A secure attachment is formed when infants trust and depend on their caregivers, feeling safe and comforted when the caregiver returns.

What are some characteristics of avoidant attachment?

Avoidant attachment is characterized by infants who do not seem upset when the caregiver leaves and may ignore the caregiver upon their return.

What happens in the 'autonomy versus shame and doubt' stage?

Children develop independence and want to assert their control over actions but may feel shame or doubt if criticized or overly controlled.

What does initiative versus guilt refer to in early childhood development?

Children aged three to five begin to take initiative in tasks and play but may feel guilt when their actions conflict with rules or expectations.

How does attachment affect a child's later development according to Bowlby?

Bowlby theorized that early attachment styles impact later relationships, emotional regulation, and social interactions throughout life.

What are adverse childhood experiences (ACEs)?

ACEs are potentially traumatic events that occur in childhood, such as abuse, neglect, and household dysfunction, which can impact development.

What form of attachment do children with stable and nurturing environments typically develop?

Children in stable and nurturing environments typically develop secure attachments.

What is the significance of caregiver responsiveness in attachment theory?

Caregiver responsiveness is crucial as it influences the type of attachment a child develops, impacting their emotional security and relationships later in life.

What are the four main types of attachment as defined by Ainsworth?

Secure, anxious ambivalent, anxious avoidant, and disorganized.