unit 3 developmental psychology

Developmental Psychology

Studies how people grow, change, and develop throughout their lives, including physical, cognitive, social, and emotional changes.

Cross-sectional Study

A research method that observes or tests different groups of people of varying ages at a single point in time.

Advantages of Cross-sectional Studies

Quick and cost-effective, providing a snapshot of differences among age groups to identify patterns and trends.

Disadvantages of Cross-sectional Studies

Cohort effects can occur, meaning differences might stem from generational factors rather than age; also, individual development isn't tracked.

Longitudinal Study

A research method that observes or tests the same group of people over an extended period.

Advantages of Longitudinal Studies

They provide detailed information about how individuals change over time and are less affected by cohort effects.

Disadvantages of Longitudinal Studies

Time-consuming and expensive, with potential issues of attrition and historical effects impacting findings.

Nature vs. Nurture

A major theme in developmental psychology that investigates whether genetics (nature) or environment (nurture) has a greater impact on human development.

Stability vs. Change

A theme that examines whether traits and behaviors are stable throughout life or change over time.

Continuity vs. Stages

A theme concerning how people change and grow, whether development is gradual and continuous or occurs in distinct stages.

Prenatal Development

Covers the stages of physical development before birth: germinal, embryonic, and fetal stages.

Teratogens

Substances that can lead to birth defects in an embryo or fetus, affected by exposure duration, pregnancy stage, and type of teratogen.

Infant Reflexes

Automatic responses in newborns that indicate healthy physical and psychological development, such as rooting reflex and grasping reflex.

Fine Motor Skills

Skills that involve the use of small muscles, particularly in the hands and fingers, essential for tasks like grasping and writing.

Gross Motor Skills

Skills that involve larger muscle groups for activities such as crawling, sitting, standing, and walking.

Critical Period

A crucial window of time in development when the brain is especially receptive to certain types of learning or stimuli.

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)

Traumatic events in a child's life that can lead to long-lasting effects on physical, emotional, and cognitive development.

Puberty

The transition from childhood to adulthood marked by significant physical and hormonal changes.

Synaptic Pruning

A process during adolescence where unused neural connections are eliminated to increase brain efficiency.

Emerging Adulthood

The stage of development from 18 to the mid-20s characterized by exploration and self-discovery.

Menopause

The cessation of menstrual cycles occurring in late 40s to early 50s, accompanied by a significant drop in estrogen levels.

Late Adulthood Changes

Physical and cognitive changes include a decline in sensory abilities, stamina, and memory functions, impacting daily activities.