Human Development

Development

Pattern of continuity and change in capabilities or physical traits.

Life-long process

The concept that development occurs continuously throughout an individual's life.

Physical processes

Changes in biological nature during development.

Cognitive processes

Changes in thought, intelligence, and language during development.

Psychosocial processes

Changes in relationships with others, emotions, and personality during development.

Zygote

The fertilized egg, approximately 2 weeks in length, where fertilization and implantation occur.

Embryo

The stage of prenatal development from weeks 3 to 8, where major organs and structures develop.

Fetus

The stage of prenatal development from week 9 to birth, characterized by growth and finishing.

Teratogen

An environmental agent that causes damage during the prenatal period.

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

A condition resulting from alcohol exposure during pregnancy, leading to physical and cognitive impairments.

Reflexes Present at Birth

Automatic responses exhibited by infants, such as sucking and grasping.

Moro Reflex

A reflex in which an infant throws their arms outward in response to a sudden drop or loud noise.

Rooting Reflex

An infant's instinctual turning of the head and opening of the mouth in response to cheek stimulation.

Crawling Reflex

The rhythmic movement of an infant's arms and legs when pressure is applied to their feet while on their stomach.

Stepping Reflex

The rhythmic leg movements an infant makes when held upright over a flat surface.