PSYCH1010 - Development

Developmental Psychology Overview

Definition: Branch of psychology that studies growth and change throughout the lifespan.
Focus: Interaction between biologically predetermined patterns of behavior and the changing environment.

Heredity: Genetic influences on growth and development.
Environment: Impact of parents, siblings, friends, schooling, nutrition, and experiences on development.

Twin Studies: Examining identical twins raised in different environments to highlight environmental influences on development.
Cross-sectional Research: Comparing individuals of different ages at a single point in time.
Longitudinal Research: Observing the same group over time to track changes in behavior.
Sequential Research: Combining cross-sectional and longitudinal approaches to examine different age groups at various points in time.

Conception: The merger of sperm and egg resulting in a zygote with 23 pairs of chromosomes.
Chromosomes: Structures containing hereditary information.
Genes: Segments of DNA transmitting genetic information.
Zygote: Newly formed cell post-conception; grows to 100-150 cells in the first week.

Embryo: Zygote with developing organs like heart and brain.
Fetus: Developing individual from 8 weeks post-conception; features age of viability for survival if born early.
Preterm Infants: Born before week 38, with increased risks for health issues.
Sensitive Periods: Times when fetal development is most susceptible to environmental factors.
Teratogens: Substances (drugs, alcohol, radiation) that can harm fetal development.

Newborn Reflexes:
- Rooting: Infants turn towards stimuli on cheeks.
- Sucking: Infants suck on objects touching their lips.
- Gag Reflex: Protective throat clearing.
- Startle Reflex: Baby's fight-or-flight response to sudden noises.

Definition: Emotional bonds with caregivers, critical for development.
Impact of Attachment: Profound deprivation can lead to cognitive and emotional impairments.
Konrad Lorenz's Studies: Imprinting in newborn goslings showing attachment to the first moving object observed.

Study: Infant monkeys preferred contact comfort (terrycloth mother) over nourishment (wire mother).
Significance: Highlights the importance of comfort and emotional support in attachment.

Biological Programming: Infants are equipped to evoke nurturing responses from caregivers.
Caregiver Responsiveness: Greater caregiver responsiveness leads to secure attachments.
Attachment Styles:
- Securely Attached: Child explores independently but seeks comfort upon caregiver's return.
- Avoidant: Indifference to caregiver; does not seek contact.
- Ambivalent: Anxiety towards separation, mixed reactions upon return.
- Disorganized: Contradictory behaviors from the child.

Secure Attachments: Result in better social and emotional competence; few psychological issues.
Insecure Attachments: Lead to difficulties in adult relationships and low self-worth.

Overview: 8 stages; each stage resolves a crisis/conflict influencing personal development.
1. Trust vs. Mistrust (Birth to 1.5 years): Development of trust based on caregiver interactions.
2. Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt (1.5 to 3 years): Independence or self-doubt based on encouragement or restriction.
3. Initiative vs. Guilt (3 to 6 years): Balancing independence and negative consequences of actions.
4. Industry vs. Inferiority (6 to 12 years): Development of social skills or feelings of inadequacy.
5. Identity vs. Role Confusion (Adolescence): Exploration of self-identity and societal roles.
6. Intimacy vs. Isolation (Young Adulthood): Developing close relationships vs. loneliness.
7. Generativity vs. Stagnation (Middle Adulthood): Contributing to society vs. feeling inconsequential.
8. Ego Integrity vs. Despair (Old Age): Reflection on life leading to feelings of fulfillment or regret.

Overview: Children develop through stages; must match experiences to beliefs.
Stages:
- Sensorimotor (Birth–2 years): Object permanence, motor skills.
- Preoperational (2–7 years): Language development, egocentric thinking.
- Concrete Operational (7–12 years): Mastery of conservation and reversibility.
- Formal Operational (12 years–Adulthood): Logical and abstract thinking.

Key Concept: Cognitive development occurs via social interactions and problem-solving collaborations.
Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD): Range of tasks achievable with guidance but not independently.
Scaffolding: Support that enables children to accomplish tasks within their ZPD.

Adolescence: Transition from childhood to adulthood; marked by biological changes and identity formation.
Emerging Adulthood: Late teenage years into mid-20s; identity exploration continues.
Early Adulthood (20-40 years): Establishing personal and professional goals.
Middle Adulthood (40-65 years): Continue personal development; challenges in career and family.

Changes: Many older adults maintain intelligence; some decline in fluid intelligence.
Memory: Semantic and implicit memories remain stable; episodic memories may decline.
Social Theories:
- Disengagement Theory: Gradual withdrawal from social interactions.
- Activity Theory: Successful aging linked to maintaining ongoing activities.

Longevity: Increased life expectancy brings economic and social challenges.
Issues: Rising poverty rates, living conditions, and ongoing emotional challenges related to aging.