Life Span Development: Beginnings & Childhood

These flashcards cover key concepts related to life span development, particularly focusing on beginnings and childhood, including theories, terms, and developmental stages.

Nature/Nurture

The debate on how genetic inheritance (nature) and experience (nurture) influence behavior.

Continuity/Stages

The question of whether development is a gradual process or consists of separate stages.

Stability/Change

The exploration of whether early personality traits persist or change over time.

Gamete

An ovum or sperm cell involved in reproduction.

Zygote

A fertilized egg formed from the fusion of gametes.

Germinal period

The first two weeks of prenatal development, from conception to implantation.

Embryonic period

The stage from 3 to 8 weeks of prenatal development where body organs begin to form.

Fetal period

The period from 9 weeks until birth, marked by significant brain development.

Teratogens

Substances that can cause harm to the developing embryo or fetus.

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS)

A condition resulting from alcohol exposure during pregnancy that leads to physical and cognitive abnormalities.

Infantile reflexes

Automatic responses (like grasping and rooting) that infants display.

Theory of Mind

The ability to understand that others have different thoughts and perspectives.

Egocentrism

A developmental stage where a child is unable to see a situation from another person's perspective.

Conservation

The understanding that quantity does not change despite changes in shape or arrangement.

Lev Vygotsky

A developmental theorist emphasizing the impact of social interaction and language on learning.

Attachment Theory

The theory proposing that early relationships with caregivers form the basis for later emotional development.

Secure Attachment

A healthy attachment style characterized by mild distress when a caregiver leaves and comfort upon their return.

Insecure Attachment (Anxious style)

An attachment style where children cling to a caregiver and show distress during separation.

Insecure Attachment (Avoidant style)

An attachment style where children appear indifferent to a caregiver's departure and return.

Parenting Styles

The categorization of parental behaviors and attitudes towards children, influencing their development.

Authoritarian Parenting

A style where parents impose rules and expect obedience without open dialogue.

Permissive Parenting

A style where parents are indulgent and allow considerable freedom to children.

Authoritative Parenting

A balanced style where parents are responsive while maintaining expectations and guidelines.