3.1/3.2

Nature vs. Nurture

Debate regarding whether biological influences (nature) or environmental influences (nurture) shape development.

Continuity vs. Discontinuous Development

The question of whether development is a gradual process (continuous) or occurs in distinct stages (discontinuous).

Stability vs. Change

Inquiry into whether early traits remain consistent over time or experience changes.

Cross-Sectional Studies

Research method where data is collected from different individuals at a single point in time.

Longitudinal Studies

Research method that examines the same individuals over time to observe changes.

Teratogens

Harmful agents such as drugs, alcohol, and viruses that can negatively affect fetal development.

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS)

A condition resulting from alcohol consumption during pregnancy, causing physical and cognitive impairments.

Critical/Sensitive Period

A time frame when the brain is especially receptive to specific learning experiences.

Rooting Reflex

Newborn reflex of turning the head toward a touch on the cheek.

Grasping Reflex

Reflex where newborns automatically grasp objects placed in their palm.

Startle Reflex

Reflex where infants spread arms and legs in response to sudden movement or noise.

Visual Cliff Experiment

A test used to assess infants’ depth perception.

Habituation

The process of decreased response to repeated stimuli.

Maturation

The biological growth processes that unfold in a predictable sequence.

Fine Motor Skills

Small muscle movements, such as grasping and writing.

Gross Motor Skills

Large muscle movements, such as walking and jumping.

Puberty

The stage of physical maturation during adolescence characterized by hormonal changes.

Adolescent Growth Spurt

Rapid changes in height and weight that occur during adolescence.

Menarche

The first menstrual period experienced by females.

Spermarche

The first ejaculation experienced by males.

Primary Sex Characteristics

Physical traits directly related to reproduction.

Secondary Sex Characteristics

Physical traits not directly involved in reproduction, such as deeper voices and breast development.

Pruning

The process of removing unused neural connections in the brain.

Decision-Making

A cognitive process improved by the development of the prefrontal cortex, though it may lag behind emotional responses.

Risk-Taking Behavior

A tendency in adolescence where brain wiring favors immediate rewards.

Older Adulthood Physical Decline

Reduction in muscle mass, mobility, and increased risk for vision/hearing loss.

Brain Changes in Older Adulthood

Shrinkage of the brain and slower processing speeds, leading to potential memory-related diseases.

Neurogenesis

The process of creating new brain cells, which can be promoted by exercise.

Imprinting

The process by which some animals form attachments shortly after birth.

Visual Cliff Apparatus

An experimental setup used to demonstrate depth perception in infants.

Learning through Habituation

Acquiring knowledge by being repeatedly exposed to stimuli, leading to a decreasing response.

Development's Influencing Factors

The interplay of biological, psychological, and environmental factors in shaping human growth and behavior.