Developmental Psychology Overview

Development Overview

• Development marks the continuous evolution of biological, cognitive, and socioemotional changes beginning at conception and lasts throughout life.

Developmental Processes

• Biological Processes and Genetic Inheritance

  • Involves genetic traits passed from parents to offspring, contributing to individual differences.

• Development of the Brain

  • Significant structural and functional changes occur, laying the foundation for cognitive abilities.

• Gains in Height and Weight

  • Physical growth patterns vary by age, influenced by genetic and environmental factors, critical during the early years of life.

• Changes in Motor Skills

  • Fine and gross motor skills develop progressively; milestones vary by individual but follow general age-related trends.

• Puberty's Hormonal Changes

  • Puberty triggers biological and behavioral transformations due to increased hormone production, impacting growth and sexual development.

Cognitive Processes

• Changes in the Child's Thinking

  • Cognitive development stages reflect shifts in how children understand and interact with the world, based on theories such as Piaget's.

• Intelligence

  • Intelligence encompasses various cognitive abilities, including problem-solving, reasoning, and adaptability.

• Language Acquisition

  • Rapid language development occurs in early childhood, influenced by exposure and interaction, essential for communication and social integration.

Socioemotional Processes

• Changes in the Child's Relationships with Others

  • Social relationships evolve from family-centered to peer-focused, impacting social skills and emotional development.

• Changes in Emotions

  • Emotional maturity grows over time, with children learning to understand, express, and manage their emotions effectively.

• Changes in Personality

  • Personality traits develop through interactions, experiences, and environmental influences, establishing a unique personal identity as they age.