W1: Introduction to Developmental Psychology

Nature vs Nurture

• Nature refers to the biological unfolding of an individual based on their genes.
• Nurture refers to learning experiences that bring about changes in thoughts, feelings, or behavior.
• Epigenetics is the process where experience and environment influence gene expression.

Theory as a Lens

• Theories about developmental change can influence how children are approached.
• "Nature" theories focus on children being guided by their readiness, suggesting a child-centered approach (e.g., Piaget).
• "Nurture" theories emphasize adult-led instruction, suggesting a directive approach (e.g., Vygotsky).
• An eclectic position combines elements of both nature and nurture theories.
• Social/context focus considers how the culture of the school matches the culture of the family.

Optimizing Development

• Developmental theory can influence policy decisions to optimise development.
• Evidence-based, theoretically grounded interventions can make a difference.
• Societal problems are often intergenerational.

Developmental Psychologists and Their Impact

• Developmental psychologists apply their knowledge to diverse areas, such as:
  • Educational practices (e.g., bullying, early childhood, childcare)
  • Children in the legal system (e.g., child testimony, age of responsibility)
  • Social policies (e.g., children in detention, aged care, positive ageing)
  • Social initiatives (e.g., Headstart)
  • Interventions for parents, children, and older adults (e.g., parenting programs, ASD interventions)

Developmental Theories

• Developmental theories aim to explain development, provide meaning and connections to knowledge, and serve as a framework for organizing thinking and making predictions.
• Theories require empirical research to be supported or revised.

Baltes: An Overarching and Integrative Theory

• Development is a lifelong process involving age-related changes in adaptive capacity.
• Baltes' theory proposes seven assumptions about development:
  • Lifelong process: Development continues throughout life.
  • Multidimensional and Multidirectional: Development involves gains and losses in different areas.
  • Involves both gains and losses at every age: Development involves both positive and negative changes.
  • Lifelong plasticity: Individuals can change in response to experiences.
  • Historically embedded (cohort effects): Development is influenced by historical events.
  • Contextualism as a paradigm (cultural effects): Development is shaped by cultural factors.
  • Understanding development requires multiple disciplines: A multifaceted approach is needed to understand development.

Development in Context

• Individuals respond to and act on contexts:

  • Physical environment
  • Historical context
  • Social context
  • Cultural context

• Normative age-graded influences are similar to individuals in a specific age group (e.g., puberty, school entry).

• Normative history-graded influences affect people of a particular generation due to historical circumstances (e.g., World Wars, economic depressions).

• Non-normative life events are unusual occurrences that affect individuals (e.g., accidents, lottery wins).

Age as an Explanatory Variable

• Age is a useful organizing principle but should not be used to explain individual differences.
• Development is influenced by a complex interplay of factors, including biological, psychological, and social factors.

Test your understanding of Baltes' overarching theory of development. This quiz explores what aspects are integral to Baltes' framework and identifies those that are not. Challenge yourself with key concepts in developmental psychology.