PSYC2240 Level 1

Flashcards on Developmental Psychology

Development

The pattern of changes that a person undergoes beginning at conception and lasting until death

Developmental Psychology

Field of psychology that studies the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development of humans

Lifespan Perspective

Studies changes across the entire lifespan including biological, social, cognitive, and emotional changes

Chronological Age

The number of years that have elapsed since a person's birth

Biological Age

Functioning of all body systems

Psychological Age

Adaptive capabilities of a person compared to others

Social Age

Social roles that we take on and how connected we are with others socially

Prenatal Stage

From conception to birth; growth from a single cell to a complete organism

Infancy

From birth to 2 years; dependent on adults, many psychological activities just beginning

Early Childhood

End of infancy to about 5-6 years old; become more self-sufficient, develop school readiness skills

Middle and Late Childhood

6-11 years of age; elementary school years, mastery of fundamentals, self-control increases

Adolescence

Approximately age 10/12 - 18/21 years; rapid physical changes, independence and identity, transition from childhood to adulthood

Early Adulthood

20s and 30s; establishing independence, career development, mate selection, and starting a family

Middle Adulthood

40-60 years; assisting the next generation, achieving and maintaining career satisfaction

Late Adulthood

Begins in 60s or 70s; retirement, life review, declines in strength and health

Nature vs Nurture

Debate about the influence of genetics versus environment on development.

Stability vs Change

Debate about whether individuals stay mostly the same or change throughout their lives.

Continuity vs Discontinuity

Debate about whether development occurs gradually or through distinct stages.

Active vs Passive

Debate about whether individuals play an active role or are passive agents in their own development.