Behaviorism, Cognitive Development, and Evolutionary Theory in Human Development

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions related to behaviorism, cognitive development, and evolutionary theory in human development.

Behaviorism

A psychological approach emphasizing observable behaviors rather than internal mental states, suggesting all behaviors are acquired through conditioning.

Classical Conditioning

A learning process in which a neutral stimulus becomes associated with an unconditioned stimulus to elicit a conditioned response.

Operant Conditioning

A learning process where behaviors are modified based on their consequences, reinforced by rewards or punished by negative outcomes.

Social Learning Theory

Bandura's theory that posits individuals learn behaviors by observing others rather than through direct reinforcement.

Cognitive Development

The progression of thinking, problem-solving, and understanding that evolves throughout childhood and adolescence.

Piaget's Four Stages of Cognitive Development

A framework describing cognitive development in four stages: Sensorimotor, Preoperational, Concrete Operational, and Formal Operational.

Assimilation

The process of integrating new information into existing cognitive schemas.

Accommodation

The modification of existing cognitive schemas when new information cannot fit.

Natural Selection

The process through which traits that enhance survival and reproduction become more common in a population over generations.

Adaptation

The adjustment of organisms, either physically or behaviorally, to environmental demands.

Heritability

The genetic transmission of traits from parents to offspring.