Life Span Development PSYC200

Overview of the history and key methods (e.g., observational techniques, cross sectional and longitudinal methods) of studying developments across the lifespan Theoretical perspectives including stage and continuous models of change, learning and maturity The role of heredity and environmental influences Ethical issues relevant to developmental psychology Biological, cognitive, social, moral, gender identity, sexual and emotional development, including the development of self Maintenance and promotion of healthy development Issues arising out of intergenerational interactions with a focus on Aboriginals & Torres Strait Islander peoples Building safe and supportive environments for working with children, young people and vulnerable adults

What are the 3 domains of development?

Physical, Cognitive and Psychosocial.

Physical Development?

Growth of body, organs, hormonal changes, brain and motor skills.

Cognitive development?

Perception, memory, thinking, problem solving and language.

Psychosocial Development?

Change in personal and interpersonal relationships, roles and cultural influences.

Prenatal Period (Periods of Lifespan)

Conception to Birth

Infancy (Periods of Lifespan)

First 2 years of life

Neonatal/Newborn Period (Periods of Lifespan)

First month

Early Childhood (Periods of Lifespan)

2-5 or 6 years

Toddlers (Periods of Lifespan)

Ages 1-3

Middle Childhood (Periods of Lifespan)

6-12 years (or on the onset of puberty)

Adolescnece (Periods of Lifespan)

12-18 or 20 years (or when the individual becomes independent of parents and take on adult roles)

Emerging Adulthood (Periods of Lifespan)

18-25 years or 29 (transitional period between adolescence and adulthood)

Early Aduldhood (Periods of Lifespan)

20-40 years

Middle Adulthood (Periods of Lifespan)

40-65 years

Late Adulthood (Periods of Lifespan)

65 years and older (there are catergories in this period such as young old, old old, very old)

What is Development?

Systematic changes & continuities in the individual that occur between conception & death.