Human Development

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts in human development and psychology.

Human Development

The pattern of continuity and change in human capabilities that occurs throughout life.

Cross-sectional studies

Research comparing people of different ages at the same point in time.

Cohort

A generational group, such as millennials or Gen Z.

Longitudinal studies

Research that follows the same group of individuals over time.

Nature vs Nurture

The debate regarding the relative contributions of biological inheritance and environmental experiences to human development.

Epigenetics

The study of how environmental factors can change gene expression.

Reflexes

Genetically wired behaviors crucial for survival, such as sucking and swallowing.

Imitation in infants

A baby's first social interaction, primarily involving imitation of actions rather than objects.

Attachment

An active, affectionate, reciprocal relationship between child and primary caregiver.

Secure attachment

When an infant feels comfortable exploring in the presence of a caregiver and seeks reassurance.

Insecure attachment

Less desirable attachment styles including anxious/ambivalent, avoidant, and disorganized.

Authoritative parenting

A high control, high warmth style that is most responsive and promotes self-reliance.

Erik Erikson

Psychologist known for outlining eight stages of psychosocial development.

Trust vs Mistrust

The first stage in Erikson's theory where infants learn to trust based on caregiver reliability.

Autonomy vs Shame

The stage focused on personal control and independence from 18 months to 3 years.

Cognitive Development

The development of thinking, intelligence, and memory over the lifespan.

Jean Piaget

Psychologist known for his theory of cognitive development in children.

Schemas

Mental frameworks that organize information and guide thinking.

Concrete operational stage

Piaget's stage from ages 7-11 where logical reasoning about concrete events develops.

Moral Development

The process by which individuals develop proper attitudes and behaviors toward others in society.

Kohlberg's stages of moral development

Three levels of moral reasoning: preconventional, conventional, postconventional.

Adult egocentrism

A belief that others are as preoccupied with an adolescent as they are themselves.

Emerging adulthood

A developmental phase in the 20s, characterized by exploration and instability.

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

A psychological theory that categorizes human needs into a five-tier model.

Intrinsic motivation

The drive to do something because it is inherently enjoyable or satisfying.

Extrinsic motivation

The drive to perform an activity to earn a reward or avoid punishment.

Psychosocial influences on gender identity

How social interactions and norms shape gender roles and behaviors.

Gender Diversity Stats

Statistics on the identification of non-binary and transgender individuals in the population.

Social Role Theory

The theory explaining gender differences based on observed divisions of labor in society.