Developmental Psychology Lecture Review

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to developmental psychology, specifically focusing on Jean Piaget's theories and stages of development.

Jean Piaget

A French theorist who developed a model of cognitive development in children.

Sensorimotor Stage

The first stage of Piaget's theory, focusing on sensory and motor exploration from birth to about 2 years.

Object Permanence

The understanding that objects continue to exist even when they cannot be seen, typically developed during the sensorimotor stage.

Egocentrism

The inability to take the perspective of others, common in early childhood.

Theory of Mind

The ability to understand that others may have beliefs, desires, and intentions that are different from one's own.

Preoperational Stage

The second stage in Piaget's theory (ages 2 to 7) where children begin to use language and think symbolically, but lack logical reasoning.

Concrete Operational Stage

The third stage in Piaget's theory (ages 7 to 11) characterized by the development of logical thought about concrete objects and events.

Formal Operational Stage

The fourth stage in Piaget's theory (ages 12 and up) where individuals develop abstract reasoning and hypothetical thinking.

Teratogens

Substances that can cause harm to a developing fetus during prenatal development.

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

A condition resulting from alcohol exposure during pregnancy, leading to physical and cognitive abnormalities.

Prenatal Development

The process of development from conception to birth, impacting future behavior and psychology.

Cognitive Milestones

Developmental benchmarks in children's cognitive abilities as identified by Piaget.

Conservation

The understanding that quantity does not change despite changes in shape or appearance, developing in the concrete operational stage.

Research Participation Pool

A system for students to earn research credit hours by participating in studies, which has a closing date.

False Belief Test

A measure of theory of mind used to assess whether children understand that others can hold beliefs that are incorrect.

Maternal Stress

Stress experienced by a mother during pregnancy that can affect prenatal development.

Reflexes

Innate automatic responses present in newborns, such as grasping or sucking.