The scientific study of systematic processes of change and stability in people from conception through maturity.
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Developmental Scientists
Researchers who study changes in humans throughout their lifespan and how these changes can be applied in various fields.
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Domains of Development
The major areas of change including physical, cognitive, and psychosocial development.
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Nature vs. Nurture Debate
Discussion concerning the contributions of genetics (nature) and environment (nurture) to human development.
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Stability vs. Change
An issue examining whether early traits in individuals remain constant or evolve throughout life.
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Continuity
The concept where development is viewed as a gradual and continuous process.
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Discontinuity
The concept that development occurs in distinct stages.
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Maturation
The natural unfolding of physical changes and behavior patterns as individuals grow.
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Nuclear Family
A household unit consisting of one or two parents and their children.
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Extended Family
A multigenerational network that includes additional relatives such as grandparents, aunts, and uncles.
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Socioeconomic Status (SES)
A combination of economic and social factors that describe an individual's or family's position in society.
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Cultural Transmission
The process by which cultural elements are learned, shared, and passed on within a social group.
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Normative Age-Graded Influences
Common experiences shared by individuals in a specific age group, like puberty or retirement.
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Critical Periods
A specific time frame where certain experiences significantly impact development.
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Psychological Age
An individual's behavioral and mental capacities compared to others of the same chronological age.
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Freud’s Defense Mechanisms
Psychological strategies used to cope with reality and maintain self-image.
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Classical Conditioning
A learning process where a previously neutral stimulus elicits a response after being paired with a stimulus that naturally brings about that response.
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Operant Conditioning
A method of learning that employs rewards and punishments for behavior.
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Cognitive Development
The process of growth and change in intellectual/mental abilities, including thinking, reasoning, and memory.
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Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD)
The gap between what a learner can do without help and what they can achieve with guidance.
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Bioecological Theory
Bronfenbrenner’s theory emphasizing the interaction between the developing person and their environment.
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Natural Selection
The process through which traits that enhance survival are passed onto future generations.
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Ethics in Research
Principles guiding researchers to maximize benefits, respect autonomy, and ensure justice in research practices.