Human Development: From Fertilization to Adulthood

This set of flashcards covers key concepts and vocabulary related to human development from fertilization to adulthood, including biological, emotional, and social aspects.

Fertilization

The process of combining male and female gametes to form a zygote.

Zygote

The initial cell formed when a sperm cell fertilizes an egg cell, containing genetic material from both parents.

Chromosomes

Structures within cells that contain DNA, which carry genetic information.

XX Sex Chromosome

A pair of sex chromosomes that determine an individual to be genetically female.

XY Sex Chromosome

A pair of sex chromosomes that determine an individual to be genetically male.

Testis-determining gene

A gene located on the Y chromosome that triggers male development.

Gonads

The reproductive organs (ovaries in females and testes in males) that produce germ cells.

Primordial Germ Cells

Cells that migrate to the urogenital ridge to develop into gametes.

Testosterone

A hormone produced by the testes that influences male sexual development.

Estrogen

A hormone produced by the ovaries that influences female sexual development.

Germ Cells

Reproductive cells that undergo meiosis to form sperm or oocytes.

Meiosis

A specialized type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half to form mature gametes.

Spermatozoa

Mature male reproductive cells produced from germ cells through meiosis.

Primary Oocytes

Immature female reproductive cells that undergo meiotic division at puberty.

Infancy

The stage of human development from birth to 1 year of age.

Childhood

The stage of human development from approximately 1 to 13 years of age.

Breastfeeding

The act of feeding an infant with milk from the mother's breast, providing nutrition and bonding.

Gender Identity

A person's conception of themselves as male, female, a blend of both, or neither.

Sexual Behavior

Actions related to sexual activities and preferences.

Hormones

Chemical substances produced in the body that regulate physiological processes.

Secondary Sex Characteristics

Physical features that develop during puberty, distinguishing the sexes.

Menarche

The first occurrence of menstruation in a female.

Adolescence

The developmental stage between childhood and adulthood, typically from ages 13 to 19.

Growth Spurt

A period of rapid physical growth during puberty.

Underarm Hair

Body hair that develops in the armpit area during puberty.

Nocturnal Emissions

Unintentional discharge of semen during sleep, commonly known as wet dreams.

Emotional Development

The process of learning to express feelings and develop emotional maturity.

Social Development

The process of learning to interact with others and develop relationships.

Identity Issues

Concerns individuals have about their self-concept and place in society.

Fantasy and Dreams

Imaginative thoughts and visions that are often experienced during sleep or daydreaming.

Independent Living

The ability to live and manage oneself without reliance on others.

Libido

An individual's overall sexual drive or desire for sexual activity.

Masturbation

The act of self-stimulation of the genitals for sexual pleasure.

Covenant of Love

A sacred agreement between marriage partners to support and love each other.

Indissoluble Marriage

A marriage that cannot be dissolved or annulled.

ART (Assisted Reproductive Technology)

Medical techniques used to aid in reproduction.

Infertility

The inability to conceive after one year of unprotected intercourse.

Menopause

The natural cessation of menstruation and the end of a woman's reproductive years.

Andropause

A gradual decline in testosterone levels in aging men, leading to changes in sexual function.

Osteoporosis

A medical condition characterized by weak and brittle bones.

Empty Nest Syndrome

A feeling of grief or sadness experienced by parents when their children leave home.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

A treatment to relieve symptoms of menopause by replacing hormones.

Cryopreservation

The process of freezing biological material to preserve it for future use.

Regulation of Menstrual Cycle

The management of the hormonal cycles that govern menstruation.

Emotional Bonding

The development of a close emotional relationship between individuals.

Nutrient Supply

Provision of essential food substances to support growth and development.

Reproductive Health

A state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being in all matters relating to the reproductive system.

Spiritual Development

Growth in an individual's personal beliefs, values, and understanding of life's meaning.

Personal Resources

The attributes and skills an individual possesses to handle life challenges.

Peer Pressure

Influence exerted by a peer group encouraging a person to change their attitude, values, or behavior.

Rational Partner Selection

The process of choosing a life partner based on logical evaluation of compatibility.

Sexual Orientation

A person's pattern of emotional, romantic, or sexual attraction to individuals.

Aggression in Adolescence

Increased competitiveness or assertiveness that may occur in young adults.

Sperm Count

The concentration of sperm in a given volume of semen.