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Which of the following is NOT a method used in developmental psychology for data collection?
Developmental psychology only considers cognitive growth in human beings.
False
Name one key figure associated with Psychoanalytic Theory.
Sigmund Freud
Bronfenbrenner's theory focuses on the interaction between a developing individual and their surrounding __________ systems.
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Match the following developmental theories with their primary focus:
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What does the Learning Theory emphasize in child development?
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According to Vygotsky, cognitive development is solely an individual process, independent of social interaction.
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What are two primary domains explored in developmental psychology besides cognitive growth?
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What is the primary focus during the embryonic stage of prenatal development?
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Maternal nutrition can negatively impact fetal development.
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What is the duration of the germinal stage in prenatal development?
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The first four weeks of life are known as the _________ period.
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Match the following stages of childbirth with their descriptions:
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What principle describes the growth pattern where development occurs from the head down?
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Infants born with low birth weight are at a lower risk for health issues.
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Name one factor besides maternal nutrition that can negatively impact prenatal development.
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Study Notes
Defining Developmental Psychology
- The scientific study of changes and stability across the human lifespan
- Employs scientific methods to describe, explain, and predict changes
- Explores various periods of development, categorized by age
- Considers the interconnected domains of physical, cognitive, and psychosocial growth
Pillars of Developmental Theory
- Psychoanalytic Theory: Explores the impact of unconscious urges on behavior (Freud) and the influence of societal interactions on personality development through a series of crises (Erikson)
- Learning Theory: Emphasizes how the environment shapes behavior through traditional learning principles (behaviorism) and the role of observation and imitation in social contexts (social learning theory)
- Cognitive Theory: Focuses on qualitative shifts in thought processes (Piaget), the centrality of social interaction in cognitive development (Vygotsky), and human beings as processors of symbols (information-processing theory)
- Contextual Theory: Underscores the interaction between a developing individual and their surrounding interconnected systems of influence (Bronfenbrenner's bio-ecological theory)
- Evolutionary/Sociobiological Theory: Highlights adaptive mechanisms for survival, emphasizing critical periods for specific behaviors and the biological underpinnings of behavior (Bowlby's attachment theory)
Data Collection and Methodologies
- Self-reports: Directly gathering information from individuals
- Observations: Observing behavior in natural settings (naturalistic observation) or controlled environments (laboratory observation)
- Correlational Studies: Examining statistical associations between variables, noting that correlation does not imply causation
- Experiments: Manipulating variables to determine cause-and-effect relationships, utilizing experimental and control groups for comparison
Prenatal Development
- Spans conception to birth (gestation)
- Divided into three critical stages
Germinal Stage (0-2 weeks)
- Characterized by zygote division, increasing complexity, and implantation in the uterine wall
Embryonic Stage (2-8 weeks)
- Rapid organ and major body system development
- Most severely defective embryos typically do not survive past this stage
- Growth follows cephalocaudal ("from the top down") and proximodistal ("from the center out") principles
Fetal Stage (8 weeks-birth)
- Marked by the emergence of bone cells, rapid growth, and ongoing development of organ systems and sensory capabilities
The Neonatal Period
- First four weeks of life
- A period of transition from complete dependence within the womb to relative autonomy
Negative Impacts on Prenatal Development
- Maternal Nutrition: Inadequate maternal nutrition and weight management can negatively impact fetal development
- Teratogens: Environmental agents such as drugs, alcohol, and maternal illnesses can interfere with normal prenatal development
- Maternal and Paternal Factors: Maternal age, stress levels, and exposure to environmental hazards, as well as paternal exposure to lead, tobacco, alcohol, and radiation, can pose risks to fetal development
Childbirth
- Triggered by hormonal changes
- Progresses through distinct stages
Stage 1
- Uterine contractions leading to full cervical dilation
Stage 2
- Pushing the baby through the birth canal
Stage 3
- Expulsion of the placenta
Medical Interventions
- Episiotomy (a surgical cut to enlarge the vaginal opening)
- Electronic fetal monitoring
- Cesarean delivery
Newborn Assessment
- Newborns exhibit distinct physical characteristics, including a large head, red skin, and temporary skin conditions.
- They also display reflex behaviors such as rooting, grasping, sucking, and the Moro reflex.
- Health assessments utilize tools like the Apgar scale and the Brazelton Neonatal Behavioral Assessment Scale.
Low Birth Weight
- Infants born with low birth weight (preterm or small-for-date) face increased health risks.
Post-Maturity
- Post-mature babies (born after 42 weeks) may experience complications due to placental inefficiency.
Infant Mortality
- Stillbirth, the death of a fetus after 20 weeks of gestation, is a significant concern.
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Description
This quiz covers the fundamentals of developmental psychology, focusing on the study of human changes and stability across the lifespan. It explores key developmental theories including psychoanalytic, learning, and cognitive perspectives that shape our understanding of human growth.
