Introduction to Psychology - Module 13: Adolescence

These flashcards cover key concepts and definitions related to adolescence in psychology, as discussed in the lecture.

Lifespan perspective

The idea that development is a lifelong process.

Adolescence

The transition period from childhood to adulthood, ranging from sexual maturity to independence.

Piaget's stages of development

A theory by Jean Piaget outlining cognitive development stages: sensorimotor, preoperational, concrete operational, and formal operational.

Sensorimotor stage

The stage of development from birth to nearly 2 years, characterized by experiencing the world through senses and actions.

Formal operational stage

The stage of development from about 12 through adulthood, characterized by abstract reasoning.

Adolescent Brain Development

The brain stops adding new connections during puberty and starts pruning unused neurons and synapses.

Kohlberg's Levels of Moral Reasoning

A model detailing the evolution of moral reasoning through preconventional, conventional, and postconventional stages.

Moral intuition

The belief that moral decisions are often driven by quick, gut-feeling decisions influenced by emotions.

Identity vs. role confusion

Erik Erikson's stage of psychosocial development during adolescence where individuals refine a sense of self.

Emerging adulthood

A phase from ages 18-25 characterized by the postponement of traditional adult responsibilities due to extended education and later marriage.