Developmental Psychology Overview
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Questions and Answers

What are the two key aspects of developmental psychology according to the text?

Nature and nurture

The term ______ refers to a decreased response to a repeated stimulus.

habituation

Which of the following is NOT a belief of Jean Piaget?

  • Children begin constructing new mental processes.
  • The development of a child's cognitive abilities is influenced by the cultural environment. (correct)
  • Children actively construct their understanding of the world.
  • As children develop intellectually, they gain more than just facts.

    • Match the following terms with their corresponding descriptions:

    <p>Schema = An organized way of interacting with objects Assimilation = Applying an existing schema to new objects or problems Accommodation = Modifying an existing schema to fit a new object or problem</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Piaget's stages of cognitive development occur in a predetermined order, regardless of individual differences in pace.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the key idea behind object permanence?

    <p>Objects continue to exist even when they are not visible or audible.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a typical aspect of the preoperational stage?

    <p>Conservation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Piaget's 3-mountains problem demonstrates that preoperational stage children are capable of understanding different perspectives from their own.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does Piaget's concept of 'conservation' refer to?

    <p>The ability to understand that the amount of a substance remains the same even when its shape or appearance changes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the name Piaget gave to the period of development when children start to understand concrete concepts and logic?

    <p>Concrete-Operational stage</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to Piaget, the Formal Operational stage is characterized by the ability to think about abstract concepts and hypothetical situations.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does Vygotsky's perspective on cognitive development differ from Piaget's?

    <p>Vygotsky emphasizes the role of social interaction and guidance in cognitive development.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term used to describe the difference between what a child can accomplish with help and what they can do alone?

    <p>Zone of proximal development</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The process of ______ involves providing appropriate support and guidance to help a child progress within their zone of proximal development.

    <p>scaffolding</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Erikson's theory of psychosocial development focuses on the idea that each stage presents a unique crisis that must be resolved to move forward.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match each of Erikson's psychosocial stages with its corresponding age range.

    <p>Trust vs. Mistrust = Birth to 1 year Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt = 1 to 3 years Initiative vs. Guilt = 3 to 6 years Industry vs. Inferiority = 6 to 12 years Identity vs. Role Confusion = Early adolescence Intimacy vs. Isolation = Late adolescence to early adulthood Generativity vs. Stagnation = Middle adulthood Integrity vs. Despair = Late adulthood</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a key factor influencing the development of trust in infants according to Erikson's theory?

    <p>The infant's ability to interact with the environment independently</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Describe the potential consequences of unresponsive caregivers on infant development according to Erikson.

    <p>Infants with unresponsive caregivers may develop a sense of mistrust towards the world, potentially influencing interpersonal relationships and their overall outlook on life.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Erikson's theory suggests that success in resolving the conflict of autonomy vs. shame and doubt leads to a sense of independence and self-reliance.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT considered a typical characteristic of the initiative vs. guilt stage?

    <p>Focusing on developing a sense of identity and understanding their place in the world</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How might a child's feelings of guilt be fostered in Erikson's initiative vs. guilt stage?

    <p>Over-controlling parents, criticism for independent actions, and being discouraged from trying new things can all contribute to feelings of guilt in a child during the initiative vs. guilt stage.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Erikson's stage of industry vs. inferiority is crucial for the development of a strong work ethic and a sense of accomplishment.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The stage of identity vs. role confusion is marked by a period of ______ as teenagers explore various possibilities for their future.

    <p>self-questioning</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary goal of Erikson's intimacy vs. isolation stage?

    <p>Forming close, loving relationships and sharing life with another</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can be the potential outcome if previous stages of Erikson's theory haven't been resolved successfully by young adults?

    <p>If previous stages have not been resolved, young adults might face challenges in developing and maintaining fulfilling relationships due to feelings of isolation and a fear of commitment.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Erikson's stage of generativity vs. stagnation emphasizes the importance of contributing to something beyond oneself for a fulfilling sense of purpose.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of Erikson's stages is associated with the key conflict of reflecting on one's life and evaluating its meaning and accomplishments?

    <p>Integrity vs. Despair</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of the 'Strange Situation Test'?

    <p>The Strange Situation Test is designed to observe the attachment security of infants within the context of their relationships with caregivers, particularly during separations and reunions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the defining characteristic of an infant classified as 'securely attached' based on the Strange Situation Test?

    <p>They become visibly distressed when separated from their caregiver and actively seek comfort upon reunion.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    A child who displays ______ attachment in the Strange Situation Test might show excessive clinging to their caregiver, distress upon separation, and difficulty being comforted upon reunion.

    <p>anxious</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Avoidant attachment is associated with infants who show little emotional response to their caregiver's departure and return, and may even appear to avoid contact with them.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term used to describe a child's characteristic way of responding to the world, including their emotional, behavioral, and social patterns?

    <p>Temperament</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Temperament is generally considered to remain consistent throughout a person's life.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following factors plays a significant role in shaping a child's attachment style?

    <p>The level of responsiveness and sensitivity provided by the child's primary caregivers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why are relationships with peers increasingly important during childhood and adolescence?

    <p>Peer relationships become more crucial in childhood and adolescence due to the development of friendship, social skills, and the influence of social norms during these developmental stages.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Adolescence is a time of rapid physical and emotional changes, often characterized as a period of 'storm and stress'.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the reason behind the risky behaviors often observed during adolescence, despite the understanding of potential consequences?

    <p>The prefrontal cortex, responsible for inhibiting impulsive behaviors, is not fully developed during adolescence.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the central idea behind Erikson's concept of an identity crisis during adolescence?

    <p>An identity crisis during adolescence is a period of self-exploration and questioning as teenagers attempt to define their values, beliefs, goals, and place in the world. It's a process of searching for a sense of self and figuring out who they are and who they want to be.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following identity development statuses with their corresponding descriptions:

    <p>Identity Achievement = A person has explored various possibilities and has made firm commitments based on their own decisions. Identity Foreclosure = A person has made firm commitments without exploring various possibilities, often influenced by authority figures. Identity Moratorium = A person is currently exploring various possibilities but has not yet reached firm commitments. Identity Diffusion = A person has not seriously considered various possibilities and lacks a clear sense of identity.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Erikson's theory suggests that achieving a strong sense of identity during adolescence is crucial for successful life-long development.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the 'personal fable' that is often associated with teenagers?

    <p>The belief that one is invulnerable and nothing bad can happen to them.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary concern of most adults during early adulthood?

    <p>The main concern of adults in early adulthood is often focused on achieving success, making meaningful contributions to society and family, and establishing a secure lifestyle.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Midlife transition is a period of reassessing life goals, potentially shifting directions, and preparing for the future, often triggered by significant life events.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a possible benefit of going through a midlife transition?

    <p>It can lead to a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life path.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the importance of making good decisions in early adulthood for overall well-being in middle age and beyond?

    <p>Decisions made during early adulthood can have long-term implications for future well-being. Establishing healthy habits, making wise choices about careers and relationships, and setting solid foundations can contribute to a greater sense of satisfaction and well-being later in life.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Late adulthood is often marked by the decline of physical abilities and cognitive functions.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    One way to enhance cognitive function in older adults is through regular ______.

    <p>physical exercise</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the underlying premise of Terror-Management Theory?

    <p>Fear of death is a fundamental human drive that motivates many of our behaviors.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to Terror-Management Theory, how do we manage our fear of death?

    <p>We cope with our fear of death by affirming a worldview that provides a sense of meaning, purpose, and value in life. We also strive to maintain a sense of self-worth and create a legacy or impact that transcends our mortality.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Terror-Management Theory predicts that when we are reminded of our mortality, we are more likely to engage in behaviors that affirm our values, increase our self-esteem, and provide a sense of order in the world.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary ethical issue raised by advancements in modern medicine regarding death?

    <p>The potential for excessive medical intervention and prolonged suffering.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the underlying question posed when making end-of-life decisions regarding medical intervention?

    <p>Should we keep someone alive through medical intervention if their physical and mental capabilities have deteriorated significantly? The decision often revolves around balancing the desire to extend life with the potential for prolonged suffering or harm to an individual.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The decision to hasten death, often referred to as euthanasia, is always a straightforward and unambiguous decision.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one key difference between men and women's brains that may contribute to behavioral differences?

    <p>Women's brains are more likely to have dense connections between hemispheres.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Describe a common behavioral difference between men and women.

    <p>Women tend to be more accurate at recognizing facial expressions and detecting emotional signals, while men are more likely to use directions and distances (e.g., &quot;go four blocks east&quot;) when giving directions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Men and women generally perform differently in math, with men consistently outperforming women.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Interests are generally stable and consistent throughout a person's life, with little room for change or development.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a common factor that can contribute to the development of interests?

    <p>The individual's innate ability to focus and concentrate.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are gender roles and how do they relate to society?

    <p>Gender roles are patterns of behavior that society expects individuals to adhere to based on whether they are perceived as male or female. They are often influenced by cultural norms, social expectations, and historical traditions. While gender roles have evolved over time, they represent a significant aspect of social structure and influence how individuals are perceived, treated, and expected behave.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Gender roles are often flexible and easily adaptable to changing societal expectations.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a potential consequence of rigid gender roles?

    <p>It can hinder individuals from pursuing their interests and make it difficult to express their true selves.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the four primary parenting styles identified in the text?

    <p>The four main parenting styles are authoritative, authoritarian, permissive, and indifferent/uninvolved parenting.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Authoritative parents combine high expectations with warmth and responsiveness, creating a nurturing and supportive environment.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the parenting styles with their corresponding characteristics:

    <p>Authoritative = High standards, warm relationships, clear expectations, and responsive communication Authoritarian = Strict rules, emphasis on obedience, less warmth and communication Permissive = Warmth and affection, few rules and boundaries, lenient discipline Indifferent/Uninvolved = Limited emotional involvement, few rules and boundaries, minimal interaction and responsiveness</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Children raised by gay/lesbian parents consistently experience developmental, social, and emotional challenges compared to those raised by heterosexual parents.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common challenge faced by children raised by single-sex couples?

    <p>They may face prejudiced attitudes and discrimination from their peers.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Introduction

    • A fictional scenario of a student purchasing a malfunctioning robot, highlighting the concept of development in a relatable way.
    • The story illustrates that some things take time to develop and that development is not uniform.
    • Introduction to developmental psychology as the scientific study of how organisms change from conception until death.
    • It encompasses how nature and nurture intertwine to shape human behavior.

    The Fetus & the Newborn

    • Prenatal development begins with a fertilized egg cell (zygote).
    • A fetus is a more developed organism than an embryo, existing from around 8 weeks after conception until birth.
    • The nervous system matures early in pregnancy, enabling rudimentary movements.
    • Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is a serious condition resulting from maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy.
    • FAS is characterized by physical deformities and mental impairments.
    • Developing neurons require persistent excitation to survive; alcohol disrupts this process.
    • Alcohol increases inhibitory neurotransmitter activity, leading to neuronal destruction.

    Infant's Vision

    • Infants' initial understanding of faces is different from adults.
    • Newborns perceive faces as ovals with the majority of content at the top.
    • Face recognition improves over time, reliant on experiences and frequency of exposure.

    Infant's Hearing

    • Infants exhibit heightened responses to new auditory stimuli.
    • Repeated exposure to a sound diminishes this response— a phenomenon called habituation.
    • Dishabituation is demonstrated by a renewed response to a novel sound.

    Jean Piaget's View of Cognitive Development

    • Jean Piaget was a Swiss psychologist, known for his systematic study of cognitive development in children. His theory explains child's construct a mental model of the world.
    • Schema—an organized way of interacting with objects (e.g., grasping).
    • Assimilation—applying a schema to a new object or problem (e.g., applying the grasping schema to a new toy).
    • Accommodation—modifying an existing schema to account for new information (e.g., recognizing that not all four-legged animals are dogs).
    • Four stages of cognitive development:
      • Sensorimotor (birth to 2 years): understanding through senses and actions (e.g., object permanence).
      • Preoperational (2 to 7 years): symbolic thinking, but lacks logical reasoning (e.g., egocentrism, appearance as reality).
      • Concrete operational (7 to 11 years): logical reasoning, but limited to concrete objects (e.g., conservation).
      • Formal operational (11 years and beyond): abstract thought and problem-solving.

    Differing Views: Piaget & Vygotsky

    • Piaget's view emphasizes children's independent discovery of concepts (conservation).
    • Vygotsky's view highlights the crucial role of adult guidance in learning, within a zone of proximal development.
    • Scaffolding is a style of teaching that adapts to the needs of the learner.

    Erik Erikson's Description of Human Development

    • Erikson's theory on psychosocial development describes developmental life stages with specific conflicts or tasks to master.
    • Stages include trust vs. mistrust, autonomy vs. shame and doubt, initiative vs. guilt, industry vs. inferiority, identity vs. role confusion, intimacy vs. isolation, generativity vs. stagnation, integrity vs. despair.

    Erikson's 8 Psychosocial Stages (Details)

    • Trust vs. Mistrust (infancy): establishing trust in caregivers.
    • Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt (toddlerhood): developing independence and self-control.
    • Initiative vs. Guilt (preschool): exploring the world and taking initiative.
    • Industry vs. Inferiority (elementary school): developing a sense of competence and accomplishment.
    • Identity vs. Role Confusion (adolescence): establishing a sense of self.
    • Intimacy vs. Isolation (young adulthood): forming close relationships.
    • Generativity vs. Stagnation (middle adulthood): contributing to society and future generations.
    • Integrity vs. Despair (late adulthood): reflecting on one's life and accepting it.

    Infancy & Childhood: The Strange Situation

    • A standardized procedure to observe attachment security in infants.
    • The procedure involves interactions between the infant, mother, and a stranger in a room.
    • Classification of responses into 4 categories:
      • Securely attached: infant uses the mother as a secure base to explore.
      • Insecure-anxious attachment: infant shows high levels of distress when mother leaves and a mixed reaction to her return often clinging desperately.
      • Insecure-avoidant attachment: infant shows low levels of distress when mother leaves and avoids or ignores her return
      • Disorganized attachment: infant shows contradictory behaviours in response to the procedure.

    Infancy & Childhood: Temperament

    • Temperament refers to the innate tendency to be active/inactive, responding vigorously or quietly to stimuli.
    • An infant's temperament may predict how secure their attachment style will develop

    Social Development in Childhood & Adolescence

    • Relationships with peers and friendships increase importance in social development.
    • Adolescence is a period characterized by "storm and stress" -- mood swings, conflicts, and risk-taking behaviors.
      • This behaviour is often related to the incomplete development of the prefrontal cortex.
    • Identity development, involving the construction of a coherent life story and exploring future goals.
      • 4 outcomes of identity formation: achievement, foreclosure, moratorium, and diffusion.

    Adult Development (General Aspects)

    • Early adulthood (20s-40s): major relationship and career decisions.
    • Middle adulthood (40s-65s): life reevaluation, reassessing goals, new directions.
    • Late adulthood (65+): reflecting on life satisfaction and the impending process of death

    The Psychology of Facing Death

    • The emotional and psychological distress caused by contemplating death.
    • Coping strategies include managing fear, engaging/ reaffirming values, and focusing on meaning.
    • Terror management theory discusses how we cope with the fear of death.
    • Approaches to accepting mortality include embracing the present, reassessing goals, building meaningful relationships, and preparing oneself for the future.

    Gender Influences

    • Males and females differ in some biological factors impacting development and behavior.
    • There are no significant gender differences in intellectual abilities, but social roles and stereotypes affect math performance in some cultures.
    • Gender roles are patterned behaviors based on social expectations for males and females.
    • There are significant changes in these patterns over time.

    Effects of Parenting Styles

    • Authoritative, authoritarian, permissive, and indifferent/uninvolved parenting styles significantly influence children's behavior and personality.
      • Authoritative parents combine high expectations with warm support, creating a nurturing environment.
      • Authoritarian parents tend to be more demanding and less warm. While often enforcing adherence to rules, the reasons for them are rarely or vaguely communicated.
      • Permissive parents exhibit a degree of warmth coupled with limited control. In some instances, children with this type of parenting may lack clarity and structure.
      • Indifferent/uninvolved parents provide minimal support or guidance and offer little to no structure.

    Non-Traditional Families

    • Non-traditional families are defined as those different from the commonly understood traditional model.
    • Children in non-traditional families are generally similar to those in traditional families in terms of social-emotional development.

    Parental Conflict & Divorce

    • Attitudes towards divorce vary across different cultures.
    • The effects of parental conflict and divorce on children can be diverse; some experience short-term difficulties, while others are resilient. Constant conflict may negatively affect children's development.

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