PSY 200 Summary

Lifespan Development

The study of how people grow, develop, and change throughout their lives, covering physical, cognitive, emotional, and social changes.

Stages of Development

Divisions of life into distinct phases, each characterized by unique developmental milestones.

Prenatal Stage

The period from conception to birth, marked by rapid physical development and organ formation.

Infancy

The stage from birth to 2 years, focusing on physical growth, motor skills, and basic cognitive development.

Early Childhood

The stage from 2 to 6 years, where children develop social skills, language, and self-awareness.

Middle Childhood

The stage from 6 to 12 years, characterized by improved cognitive skills and complex social relationships.

Adolescence

The stage from 12 to 18 years, involving puberty, identity development, and exploration of independence.

Early Adulthood

The stage from 18 to 40 years, where individuals establish careers, relationships, and focus on personal growth.

Middle Adulthood

The stage from 40 to 65 years, often involving midlife changes and reflection on life achievements.

Late Adulthood

The stage from 65 years and older, marked by physical decline, retirement, and life review.

Domains of Development

The three main areas of study in development:physical, cognitive, and social/emotional.

Physical Development

Growth in the body and brain, including motor skills, health, and sensory changes.

Cognitive Development

Changes in thinking, memory, problem-solving, and intelligence, including theories like Piaget’s stages.

Social and Emotional Development

The process of forming relationships, managing emotions, and developing identity, often analyzed through Erikson’s stages.

Piaget’s Cognitive Development Theory

A theory focusing on how children learn to think and reason.

Erikson’s Psychosocial Theory

A theory emphasizing social relationships and emotional challenges throughout life stages.

Vygotsky’s Sociocultural Theory

A theory highlighting the role of social interaction and culture in learning and development.

Attachment Theory

A theory examining the bonds between infants and caregivers and their impact on future relationships.

Nature vs

The discussion on how genetics (nature) and environment (nurture) influence a person's development.

Lifespan Perspective

The view that development is lifelong, multidimensional, and influenced by cultural, historical, and social factors.