Behavior Genetics, Physical and Cognitive Development, Attachment, Temperament, Identity Development, Stereotypes and Prejudice

These flashcards cover key concepts related to behavior genetics, physical and cognitive development, attachment theory, temperament, identity development, stereotypes, and prejudice, providing essential definitions and insights for exam preparation.

Nature vs. Nurture

The debate concerning whether genetics (nature) or environment (nurture) primarily shapes human traits.

Genotype

The genetic makeup of an individual, which determines their potential traits.

Phenotype

The observable traits and characteristics caused by an individual's genotype.

Polygenic transmission

The concept that multiple genes contribute to the expression of one trait.

Epigenetics

The study of how external factors can affect the expression of genes.

Heritability

The proportion of variation in a trait attributable to genetic factors in a population.

Twin Studies

Research studies that examine the relative impact of genetics versus environment by comparing traits in monozygotic (identical) and dizygotic (fraternal) twins.

Heston Study

A study that found that 10% of adopted children with schizophrenic biological mothers developed schizophrenia, indicating strong genetic influence.

Prenatal development

The process of development of the fetus during pregnancy, including crucial phases such as germinal, embryonic, and fetal.

Teratogens

Substances that can harm a developing fetus, such as alcohol, tobacco, and pollution.

Cognitive development

The process through which individuals acquire and refine their cognitive abilities, including memory and problem-solving.

Piaget's theory

A theory of cognitive development proposing that children move through four stages: sensorimotor, preoperational, concrete operational, and formal operational.

Attachment

A strong emotional bond between a caregiver and a child that develops over time and is crucial for survival.

Secure attachment

A type of attachment where children feel safe to explore and show distress when a caregiver leaves but are easily comforted upon their return.

Temperament

A person's characteristic emotional reactivity and intensity, which is relatively stable over time.

Marcia’s Stages of Identity Development

A framework describing four identity statuses: identity diffusion, foreclosure, moratorium, and identity achievement.

Emerging adulthood

A developmental stage occurring approximately between ages 18 and 25, marked by exploration and instability in life choices.

Stereotypes

Simplified and generalized ideas about a group, often learned and reinforced culturally.

Prejudice

Negative feelings or attitudes toward individuals based on their group membership.

Discrimination

Negative behaviors directed against individuals based on their group membership.

Implicit bias

Unconscious associations or attitudes toward a group that affect perceptions and decisions.