Development Across the Lifespan - Test 1 Review Exercise

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture on human growth and development across the lifespan, providing definitions and explanations for important terms and theories.

Lifespan Perspective

It identifies ten distinct life stages through which humans develop.

Nature vs. Nurture

The debate about the relative contributions of genetics (nature) and environment (nurture) to human growth and development.

Monozygotic Twins

Twins that are genetically identical, resulting from a single fertilized egg that splits into two embryos.

Dizygotic Twins

Twins that are fraternal, resulting from two separate eggs fertilized by two separate sperm.

Biopsychosocial Interpretation

An approach that considers biological, psychological, and social factors in understanding human development.

Erikson’s Psychosocial Theory

A theory proposing eight stages of psychosocial development, each characterized by a specific challenge.

Concrete Operational Stage

Piaget's developmental stage (ages 7-11) where children show declining egocentrism and can reason logically only in concrete terms.

Plasticity

The concept that development is not fixed and can change in response to the environment.

Sociocultural Theory

Vygotsky's theory emphasizing that learning occurs through social interactions and is influenced by culture.

Ecological Theory

Bronfenbrenner's framework identifying four levels of environmental influence on human development.

Representative Sample

A subset of a population that closely matches the characteristics of the larger group being studied.

Independent Variable

The variable that is changed or controlled in a scientific experiment to test its effects on the dependent variable.

Naturalistic Observation

A research method involving observing subjects in their natural environment without interference.

Autosomes

The first 22 pairs of chromosomes that are not sex chromosomes.

Phenotype

The observable physical, behavioral, and psychological traits of an individual, influenced by genetics and environment.

Genetic Abnormalities

Disorders caused by chromosomal malfunctions, such as Down Syndrome.

Teratogens

Substances that can cause developmental malformations during pregnancy.

Ultrasound

A prenatal assessment tool that uses sound waves to create images of the fetus.

Attachment Styles

Patterns of attachment identified in infants, including secure, avoidant, and anxious attachment.

Stranger Wariness

An emotional response seen in infants around 6 months when they become anxious around unfamiliar people.

Gender Constancy

The understanding that one's gender remains the same despite changes in appearance or situations.

Emotional Intelligence

The ability to recognize, understand, and manage one's own and others' emotions.

Average Intelligence Range

According to the Stanford-Binet test, an IQ range of approximately 90-110.

Symptoms of ADHD

Common signs include over-activity, inattention, and impulsivity.