Psychology Unit 2 - Infancy

Vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts related to infancy in psychology.

Maturation

The process of growth and change in the body that occurs naturally, rather than through learning or practice.

Attachment

Emotional ties formed between people.

Temperament

A person's characteristics, emotional reactivity, and intensity, often described using the Big Five personality traits.

Object permanence

Understanding that objects continue to exist even when they cannot be seen, felt, or heard.

Imprinting

The process by which animals form immediate attachments during a critical period.

Stranger Anxiety

Fear of strangers typically exhibited by infants around 8 months of age.

Contact Comfort

Physical and emotional comfort provided to an infant through a mother's touch.

Separation Anxiety

The distress an infant experiences when a parent leaves, commonly seen around 8 months.

Big 5 (temperament) - Extroversion

Characterized by being outgoing, assertive, and active.

Big 5 (temperament) - Agreeableness

Characterized by being kind, helpful, and easy-going.

Big 5 (temperament) - Conscientiousness

Characterized by being organized, deliberate, and conforming.

Big 5 (temperament) - Openness

Characterized by being imaginative, curious, and artistic.

Big 5 (temperament) - Neuroticism

Characterized by being anxious, moody, and self-punishing.

Piaget's Theory

A theory that suggests development is a continuous process and that children demonstrate mental abilities and operations at an earlier age than previously thought.

Sensorimotor stage

The first stage of Piaget's theory where infants use their senses but lack object permanence.

Pre-operational stage

The second stage of Piaget's theory characterized by egocentric and intuitive thinking, symbolic use.

Concrete operational stage

The third stage of Piaget's theory where children begin to think logically about concrete events.

Formal operational stage

The fourth stage of Piaget's theory marked by the ability to think abstractly and plan.

Four types of Attachment

Different styles of attachment in children: Anxious-ambivalent, Anxious-avoidant, Anxious-disorganized, and Securely attached.

Neonate stage

The initial 4 weeks after birth where bonding and attachment are crucial for development.

Pruning

The process of discarding excess neurons during development.

Myelination process

The development of a protective substance for axons that occurs primarily during the first 20 years of life.

Limbic System

The part of the brain that controls emotions.

Cerebellum

The part of the brain responsible for balance, posture, and coordination.

Cerebral Cortex

The area of the brain associated with thinking, speech, and attention span.

Serve and return

The interaction and communication between infant and caregiver.

Executive functioning

Basic social and emotional skills involving planning, interaction, and problem-solving.