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Chapter 5: Developing Through the Lifespan

Overview

• This chapter covers the entire human lifespan, from conception to death, highlighting the importance of understanding development at each stage.

• Emphasis on both genetic inheritance (nature) and the environmental influences (nurture) on child development.

Nature vs. Nurture

• Nature refers to genetic predispositions.

• Nurture refers to environmental influences, including parenting styles and experiences.

• Both elements are essential in shaping development: "It's not nature or nurture, it's nature and nurture."

Theories of Development

Continuity vs. Stages

• Development can be viewed as either a gradual process or through distinct stages.

  • Example: Toddlers go through awkward physical stages, while puberty is a slow process with sudden changes.

• Certain developmental capabilities emerge dramatically, such as the concept of object permanence.

Stability vs. Change

• Examination of traits that persist vs. those that change as individuals age.

• The impact of lifestyle choices on aging shows stability in some traits and significant changes in others.

Major Theoretical Perspectives

Jean Piaget

• Focuses on cognitive development and how children perceive and understand the world.

• Importance of parenting styles to support children’s development through effective scaffolding.

Lawrence Kohlberg

• Concentrates on moral development categorized into three stages: preconventional, conventional, and postconventional morality.

• Focus is not on philosophical morality but on understanding moral reasoning in children.

Erik Erikson

• Discusses psychosocial development through different stages across the lifespan, influenced by societal changes and historical context.

• Highlights the importance of understanding life roles at different ages, such as the expectations of responsibility varying from teenage to adulthood.

Prenatal Development

Zygote to Fetus

1. Zygote Stage (conception - 2 weeks)

   • A fertilized egg that begins dividing rapidly.

2. Embryonic Stage (2 weeks - 2 months)

   • Fastest development occurs; creation of the placenta and basic structures of the organism.

3. Fetal Stage (2 months to birth)

   • Major development of organs and features; by the end, a recognizable human form.

   • Essential for the brain development; prolonged gestation is crucial for health.

Teratogens and Their Effects

• Teratogens: Any substances that can harm fetal development (e.g., alcohol, drugs, viruses).

  • Importance of avoiding harmful substances during pregnancy for optimal fetal health.

  • Heavy drinking during pregnancy can lead to fetal alcohol syndrome.

Competent Newborn

• Newborns come equipped with reflexes for survival, such as suckling and crying.

• Their cries signal needs, and parents must be attentive to these cues.

• Babies respond better to faces and are naturally drawn to face-like patterns.

Brain Development

• Early experiences shape neuronal connections, and the environment plays a critical role in brain structure.

• Critical periods exist for skills like language acquisition and vision before the age of three.

Role of Experience

• Language development is heavily influenced by immersion in the language environment.

• Experience throughout life continues to shape affection, development, and personality.

Summary

• Parenting requires understanding and adaptability to support the diverse developmental needs of children.

• Acknowledges the complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors throughout life stages, necessitating informed and responsible parenting choices.