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Developmental Psychologists
Study physical, cognitive, and social change thought the life span
What are the three major issues that developmental psychologist’s research?
Nature and Nurture, Continuity and stages, and Stability and Change
Nature and Nurture
How does our genetic inheritance (nature) interact with experiences (nurture) to influence our development
Continuity and Stages
What part of development is gradual and continuous and what parts change abruptly in separate stages
Stability and Change
Which of our traits persist through life? How do we change as we age?
Zygote
The fertilized egg
Embryo
The zygote attaches to the uterine wall, and over 6 weeks it turns into an embryo as organs begin to form and function. The heart also begins
Fetus
After 9 weeks, it looks like a human and now it is a fetus. Facial features, hands, and feet have formed
Teratogen
Means “monster makers”; agents, such as chemicals and viruses, that can reach the embryo or fetus during prenatal development and cause harm.
Ex. Alcohol, tobbaco, drugs, viruses, medications
FAS
Fetal alcohol Syndrome. Happens when the mother drinks excessively while pregnant with the baby
Rooting Reflex
When the corner of the baby’s mouth is touched, the baby will turn their head and open their mouth in the direction of the stroking. This helps the baby to find the breast or the bottle to feed. This last about 4 months
Sucking reflex
When the roof of the baby’s mouth is touched, the baby will begin to suck.
Grasping reflex
Stroking the palm of a baby’s hand causes the baby to close their fingers in a grasp. This reflex lasts until the baby is about 5 to 6 months old. A similar reflex in the toes last until 9 to 12 months old.
Moro Reflex
AKA the startle reflex; in response to a loud sound or sudden movement, the baby throws their head back, extends their limbs, cries, and pulls the limbs back in. This lasts until the baby is about 2 months old.
Babinski reflex
Occurs after the sole of the food has been firmly stroked. The big toe moves upwards or toward the top surface of the food, the other toes fan out
Habituation
Decreasing responsiveness with repeated stimulation
How is habituation used to understand a newborn’s competencies?
Habituation is used to help us understand how they get used to a stimulus and how the responses works and stays
