Darwin's Theory of Evolution and Emergence of Child Development as a Discipline

Flashcards covering Darwin's theory of evolution and the emergence of child development as a formal discipline, including key figures and concepts.

What is Darwin's Theory of Evolution?

The idea that species change over time through natural selection, genetic variation, and adaptation to their environment.

Who started evolution research in the 19th century?

Charles Darwin.

What topics did early child development research originate from according to the notes?

Attachment, sex differences, aggression, and related areas.

When did child development begin to emerge as a formal discipline?

Late 19th to early 20th centuries.

What milestones mark the emergence of child development as a discipline?

Universities establishing departments, the first journals, development of valid measures of intelligence, and focused research on child development.

Who were the two most influential theorists in early child development?

Sigmund Freud and John Watson.

What did Sigmund Freud emphasize in his theory of development?

Unconscious motivations and the influence of early childhood experiences.

What did John Watson emphasize in early learning theory?

Behaviorism—overt actions are learned through conditioning and reinforcement/punishment.

What is the iceberg analogy used to describe in psychology?

A model of consciousness with three levels: conscious (aware), preconscious (memories not currently active), and unconscious (unaware).

What are the three levels of consciousness in the iceberg analogy?

Conscious (fully aware), Preconscious (storehouse of memories not currently in awareness), Unconscious (things you are unaware of).