PSYC1000 – Week 8 Lifespan Development Key Terms

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary and definitions related to lifespan development as discussed in the PSYC1000 Week 8 lecture.

Developmental Psychology

The study of how people grow, change, and develop across the entire lifespan (physical, cognitive, social, and behavioral changes).

Proximodistal Trend

A pattern of growth where development starts at the center of the body and moves outward to the extremities.

Cephalocaudal Trend

A developmental pattern where growth begins at the head and moves downward toward the feet.

Epiphyses

Areas of cartilage in developing bones that eventually harden into bone during growth.

Longitudinal Study

A research method where the same group of people is studied repeatedly over a long period of time.

Cross-Sectional Study

A research method where different age groups are studied at a single point in time and compared.

Attachment

A close emotional bond between individuals, usually between a child and caregiver, that provides a sense of security.

Attachment Theory

A theory proposed by John Bowlby that explains how early relationships with caregivers shape emotional development and relationships later in life.

Secure Attachment

An attachment style where a child feels safe exploring the environment because they trust the caregiver will provide comfort when needed.

Insecure Avoidant Attachment

An attachment style where a child avoids closeness with caregivers and appears emotionally distant.

Insecure Anxious-Ambivalent Attachment

An attachment style where a child becomes very distressed when separated and has difficulty being comforted.

Disorganized Attachment

An attachment style where a child shows confused or inconsistent behavior toward the caregiver.

Developmental Domains

Major areas of human development including physical, cognitive, language, and social-emotional development.

Physical Development

Changes in the body including growth, motor skills, brain development, and sensory abilities.

Cognitive Development

The development of thinking, learning, memory, reasoning, and problem-solving abilities.

Language Development

The process of learning to understand and communicate using words, sounds, and gestures.

Social-Emotional Development

The development of relationships, emotional understanding, and the ability to manage feelings.

Expressive Language

The ability to communicate thoughts and feelings through speech, writing, or gestures.

Receptive Language

The ability to understand spoken or written language.

Brain Reward System

A system in the brain that releases chemicals like dopamine when we experience pleasure or positive interactions.

Oxytocin

A hormone associated with bonding, trust, and emotional connection.

Screen Time

Time spent using devices such as phones, tablets, computers, or televisions.

Cyberbullying

Bullying that occurs through digital devices or online platforms.