Child Psych Chapter 2

What is prenatal development?

Development from conception until birth.

What is the germinal period?

Conception to about 2 weeks; rapid cell division and implantation occur.

What is the embryonic period?

About weeks 3–8; major organs and body structures begin forming.

What is the fetal period?

Week 9 to birth; organs mature and the fetus grows rapidly.

What is cell differentiation?

The process by which cells become specialized for particular functions.

What is morphogenesis?

The development of body structures and physical form.

What is a teratogen?

An environmental agent that can negatively affect prenatal development.

What factors affect teratogen effects?

Timing, dose, duration, and genetic susceptibility.

What is a critical period?

A time when development is especially sensitive to certain experiences or exposures.

What can fetuses learn before birth?

They can become familiar with repeated stimuli such as sounds and voices.

What is prematurity?

Being born before 37 weeks of pregnancy.

What is low birth weight?

A birth weight below 2,500 grams.

What is a newborn reflex?

An automatic response to a particular stimulus.

What is the rooting reflex?

A baby turns toward something touching their cheek.

What is the sucking reflex?

A baby automatically sucks when something touches their mouth.

What is the Moro reflex?

A baby's automatic response to a sudden startling stimulus or loss of support.

What is the grasping reflex?

A baby closes their fingers around something touching their palm.

What is quiet alertness?

A newborn state where the baby is awake, calm, and attentive.