3.1

Developmental Psychology Overview

• Definition: Developmental psychology studies physical, cognitive, and social-emotional development throughout the lifespan.

Research Methods

• Cross-sectional study: Compares people of different ages at the same time.

• Longitudinal study: Follows and retests the same people over time.

Key Themes in Developmental Psychology

• Nature vs. Nurture: Examines genetic/biological vs. environmental influences on development.

• Continuity vs. Stages: Investigates whether development is gradual or in distinct stages.

• Stability vs. Change: Looks at what aspects of personality or behavior remain stable and what changes over time.

Focus Areas

• Research focuses on changes during different life stages: infancy, adolescence, and adulthood.

• Developmental changes vary significantly across these age groups.