Psychological Development

This set of flashcards covers key concepts related to psychological development, including theories of nature vs. nurture, stages of development proposed by various psychologists, and important findings related to attachment and parenting.

What is the nature vs. nurture issue in developmental psychology?

It seeks to understand the relative influence of heredity (nature) and environment (nurture) on human development.

Define identical twins. How do they differ from fraternal twins?

Identical twins develop from a single fertilized egg and share the same genotype, while fraternal twins develop from two separate fertilized eggs and share approximately 50% of their genes.

What are twin studies and why are they significant?

Twin studies compare similarities between identical and fraternal twins to study nature-nurture interactions and the influence of genetics on behavior.

What is the continuity vs. discontinuity debate in psychology?

It discusses whether development occurs in a gradual, continuous process (continuity) or through distinct stages (discontinuity).

What is Piaget's Sensorimotor Stage?

The stage from birth to age 2, where infants primarily use reflexes and have a limited ability to think; significant developments include object permanence and mental representation.

What does Erikson's stage of Trust vs. Mistrust signify?

It is the first stage in infancy (0-1.5 years) where infants develop a sense of trust when their needs are consistently met by caregivers.

What is Vygotsky's Zone of Proximal Development?

It represents the range of tasks a child can perform with guidance or assistance but not yet independently, highlighting the importance of social interaction in learning.

Describe Harlow's findings regarding attachment in infants.

Harlow's research with monkeys showed that infants need more than just food; they require contact comfort to develop healthy attachments.

What are the four main parenting styles identified by psychologists?

Authoritative, Authoritarian, Permissive, and Uninvolved.

What is the significance of the term 'imprinting' in development?

Imprinting is a strong attachment that occurs in certain species when infants form a connection with the first moving object they encounter, often a parent.

Explain the concept of psychological dwarfism.

It refers to the stunted growth and development observed in children who lack close, loving relationships during infancy.

What does the term 'schema' refer to in Piaget's theory?

Schemas are mental structures that organize knowledge and guide cognitive processes, evolving as children learn and experience new information.

What does the term 'egocentrism' mean in the context of Piaget's preoperational stage?

Egocentrism is the inability of children to see a situation from another person's perspective, viewing the world solely through their own lens.

What is the main challenge of the fifth stage in Erikson's psychosocial development?

The challenge is 'Identity vs. Role Confusion,' where adolescents strive to develop a personal identity while exploring different roles.

What are the psychological effects of quality daycare on children?

Quality daycare can help children thrive socially, while poor-quality daycare may lead to aggression, depression, or maladjustments.

What are the five stages of grief according to Elisabeth Kübler-Ross?

Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, and Acceptance.

What is the definition of maturation in psychological development?

Maturation is the automatic and sequential process of growth and development governed by genetic and biological factors.

Define attachment in early childhood development.

Attachment is the emotional bond between a caregiver and a child, which significantly influences emotional and social development.