Vocab Set | Module 3.1 [Themes and Methods in Developmental Psychology] | AP Psych Unit 3

Chronological Development

The progression of growth and changes in an individual's abilities, behaviors, and skills over time, typically measured in years.

Example: A child saying their first words around 12 months old.

Lifespan Development

The study of growth and change in an individual's physical, cognitive, and emotional abilities from birth to death.

Example: Analyzing how problem-solving skills evolve from childhood to adulthood.

Stability and change

The exploration of which traits and behaviors remain consistent and which evolve throughout a person’s life.

Example: A shy child who grows into a socially confident adult demonstrates change, while maintaining core values reflects stability.

Nature and nurture

The interplay between genetic inheritance and environmental influences in shaping an individual’s development.

Example: Intelligence being influenced by both genetic predisposition and access to quality education.

Continuous development

The process of gradual and ongoing growth in abilities and skills over time, without distinct stages.

Example: A child’s vocabulary expanding steadily as they grow.

Discontinuous development

The process of growth and change occurring in distinct stages, with qualitative shifts in abilities or behaviors.

Example: A child suddenly mastering the concept of object permanence during infancy.