PSY 100: Ch. 9 EXAM

Review Guide- PSY100: Ch. 9 [Exam 2]

What is developmental psychology?

The scientific study of change and growth throughout the life-span, focusing on how and why development occurs.

What are the three domains of development?

Physical, Cognitive, and Socio-emotional.

What does 'nature and nurture' refer to in developmental psychology?

Nature refers to biological factors, while nurture refers to environmental influences on development.

What is the primary difference between cross-sectional and longitudinal research designs?

Cross-sectional compares different age groups at one time, while longitudinal follows the same individuals over time.

What is a reflex?

An involuntary, automatic response to a stimulus.

Why are newborn reflexes important?

They indicate healthy neurological development and aid in survival.

What is synaptic pruning?

The process of eliminating unused or weak synaptic connections in the brain to improve efficiency.

What are gross motor skills?

Large muscle movements that involve whole-body motions, such as crawling and running.

What is the difference between receptive and productive language?

Receptive language is about understanding information, while productive language is about communicating that information.

What is the typical age range for adolescence?

10-18 years old.

What is menarche and its average age of onset?

Menarche is the first menstrual period, typically occurring around 12.5 years old.

What is spermarche and when does it typically occur?

Spermarche is the first ejaculation of semen, usually occurring around age 13.

What are the two dimensions of Marcia's theory of identity development?

Exploration (considering options) and Commitment (making a decision about one’s identity).

What distinguishes crystallized intelligence from fluid intelligence?

Crystallized intelligence is accumulated knowledge that remains stable or increases with age, while fluid intelligence involves reasoning abilities that decline in late adulthood.

What is the achievement status in Marcia's identity statuses?

High exploration followed by commitment, developing a self-chosen identity.

What does 'secure base' mean in the context of attachment?

It refers to the caregiver providing comfort and safety, facilitating the infant’s exploration.

What type of attachment is the most common?

Secure attachment.

What is the difference between underextension and overextension in language errors?

Underextension is using a word too narrowly, while overextension is using a word too broadly.

What is the role of the limbic system during adolescence?

It functions in memory, emotions, rewards, survival instincts, and motivation and is fully developed by ages 14-15.

How does parental caregiving affect attachment relationships?

Sensitive and consistent caregiving leads to secure attachment, while inconsistent or neglectful caregiving contributes to insecure attachments.