Exam 2 Developmental Psychology

Chromosomes

Structures in the cell that contain DNA and are responsible for genetic information.

Autosomes

22 pairs of chromosomes responsible for most traits and genetic functions.

Sex chromosomes

1 pair of chromosomes (X and Y) that determine biological sex.

Down syndrome

A chromosomal variation caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21 (trisomy 21).

Turner syndrome

A condition in females characterized by the presence of only one X chromosome (45,X).

Klinefelter syndrome

A condition in males caused by an extra X chromosome (47,XXY).

Fragile X syndrome

A genetic condition caused by a mutation in the X chromosome, often leading to intellectual disabilities.

Genotype

The genetic makeup of an individual, consisting of all the alleles inherited from both parents.

Phenotype

The observable traits or characteristics of an individual, influenced by genotype and environment.

Additive genes

Genes that contribute to phenotype in a cumulative way.

Dominant-recessive heredity

A pattern of inheritance where one allele is dominant and the other is recessive.

Epigenetics

Changes in gene expression that do not involve alterations in the DNA sequence itself.

Germinal Period

The first two weeks of prenatal development, starting with fertilization and ending with implantation.

Embryonic Period

Weeks 3-8 of prenatal development, involving major organ system development.

Fetal Period

Weeks 9-38 of prenatal development, focused on growth and maturation of organs.

Cephalocaudal principle

The tendency for development to proceed from head to tail.

Proximodistal principle

The development that starts at the center of the body and moves outward towards limbs.

Age of viability

The point in fetal development (around 24 weeks) when the fetus can survive outside the womb.

Teratogens

Harmful substances that can cause birth defects if a mother is exposed during pregnancy.

Apgar scale

A quick assessment tool used to evaluate the newborn's health immediately after birth.

Low birthweight

Defined as a baby weighing less than 5.5 pounds (2500 grams) at birth.

Small for gestational age

A baby whose birth weight is significantly below the average for their gestational age.

Kangaroo care

Holding a newborn skin-to-skin to promote bonding and improve health outcomes.

Breastfeeding benefits

Provides ideal nutrition, promotes bonding, and reduces risk of infections and illnesses.

Breastfeeding challenges

Difficulties that may include latch issues, milk supply, or social barriers.