Developmental Psychology Concepts

Flashcards covering key developmental psychology concepts discussed in lecture notes.

Conventional Morality

Stages 3 and 4 where people consider their roles as good and responsible members of society.

Postconventional Morality

Stages 5 and 6 where universal moral principles are considered beyond a specific society.

Puberty

The onset of reproductive capability marked by growth spurts and secondary sex characteristics.

Formal Operational Stage

Piaget's stage where adolescents can think abstractly and hypothetically.

Abstract Thinking

The ability to think about concepts and ideas that are not physically present.

Identity Diffusion

Lack of commitment or exploration in identity development.

Foreclosure

Commitment to an identity without prior exploration, often influenced by parents.

Moratorium

Active exploration of identity without a clear commitment.

Identity Achievement

Committing to an identity after exploring various options.

Personal Fable

The belief that one's experiences are unique and not understood by others.

Imaginary Audience

The belief that everyone is focused on and observing one's actions.

Identity vs. Role Confusion

Erikson's stage where adolescents explore roles and beliefs to form a cohesive self.

Anorexia Nervosa

An eating disorder characterized by an intense fear of weight gain.

Bulimia Nervosa

An eating disorder involving binge eating followed by purging.

Intimacy vs. Isolation

Erikson's stage in early adulthood focused on forming intimate relationships.

Generativity vs. Stagnation

Erikson's stage in middle adulthood about contributing to society and guiding the next generation.

Menopause

The permanent end of menstruation, typically occurring in middle adulthood.

Integrity vs. Despair

Erikson's stage in late adulthood involving reflection on life and accomplishments.

Fluid Intelligence

The ability to solve problems and adapt, which tends to decline with age.

Crystallized Intelligence

Accumulated knowledge and verbal skills, often stable or improving with age.

Primary Aging

The natural, biological aging process.

Secondary Aging

Aging influenced by environmental and lifestyle factors.

Grief

An emotional response to significant loss.

Euthanasia

Assisting terminally ill patients in ending their life quickly.

Nature vs. Nurture

The debate over hereditary versus environmental factors in human development.

Erikson's Psychosocial Theory

A theory of eight stages of psychosocial development focused on core conflicts shaping personality.