Psychology Chapter 1: Introduction

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Questions and Answers

What is a characteristic of development throughout the lifespan?

It is influenced solely by biological factors.

It is static and does not change over time.

It involves both growth and decline. (correct)

It is relative to specific age groups only.

Which of the following best defines maturation in the context of development?

The psychological changes throughout different life stages.

The cultural influences that shape an individual’s abilities.

The gradual learning of skills through experience.

The biological changes that occur as an individual ages. (correct)

Which of the following is a normative age-graded influence?

Becoming a millionaire in early adulthood.

Experiencing puberty during the teenage years. (correct)

Surviving a natural disaster at any age.

Being raised in a bilingual household.

What does the term 'multidirectional' imply in developmental psychology?

Certain dimensions can shrink or expand over time. Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is NOT typically considered in the study of developmental psychology?

Astrological signs. Signup and view all the answers

What does plasticity refer to in the context of development?

The capacity for change and adaptation throughout life. Signup and view all the answers

What role does socioeconomic status (SES) play in development?

It influences access to resources and opportunities. Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of a nonnormative life event?

Winning a lottery unexpectedly. Signup and view all the answers

Which principle reflects the idea that development results from the interplay of biology and environment?

Development is cumulative and interactive. Signup and view all the answers

In what way does development occur throughout the lifespan?

It involves ongoing growth, maintenance, and regulation of loss. Signup and view all the answers

What does a 'lifelong' perspective of development imply?

No single period dominates development over the lifespan. Signup and view all the answers

How does technology impact development according to contemporary concerns?

It causes a permanent shift in ways of life for all ages. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a guiding principle of development?

Development is a dynamic and reciprocal process. Signup and view all the answers

What is marasmus in the context of infant malnutrition?

Wasting away of body tissues in the infant's first year Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is NOT mentioned as influencing motor development in infants?

Child's genetic predisposition Signup and view all the answers

At what age do infants typically begin to sit independently?

6 to 7 months Signup and view all the answers

How does motivation influence the development of motor skills in infants?

It encourages infants to perceive and act based on their goals. Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical developmental milestone achieved around 10 to 12 months of age?

Standing alone Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect is highlighted as a factor in the complexity of motor development?

Infant's active efforts Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a behavioral milestone observed in infants shortly after birth?

Lifting their heads Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following supports motor development in infants?

Environmental support for skills Signup and view all the answers

What is the process in which a single cell divides to form two identical cells?

Mitosis Signup and view all the answers

Which term refers to the observable characteristics of an individual?

Phenotype Signup and view all the answers

What type of twins develops from two separate eggs fertilized by different sperm?

Fraternal twins Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for permanently altered segments of DNA?

Mutated gene Signup and view all the answers

Which syndrome is characterized by the presence of an extra chromosome 21?

Down Syndrome Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about the dominant-recessive gene principle is true?

A dominant gene expresses its effect regardless of the other gene. Signup and view all the answers

What does 'gene-gene interaction' focus on?

The dependency of two or more genes on each other. Signup and view all the answers

What is a chromosomal disorder in females characterized by the absence of one X chromosome?

Turner Syndrome Signup and view all the answers

Which prenatal diagnostic test uses ultrasound to evaluate the fetus?

Ultrasound sonography Signup and view all the answers

Which concept refers to traits being influenced by the environment alongside genetics?

Active gene-environment correlations Signup and view all the answers

What primary function do the occipital lobes serve?

Vision Signup and view all the answers

What genetic disorder results from an inability to properly metabolize phenylalanine?

Phenylketonuria (PKU) Signup and view all the answers

Which research method focuses on observing behaviors in a natural setting without interference?

Naturalistic observation Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true regarding infant sleep patterns?

Newborns sleep approximately 18 hours a day. Signup and view all the answers

What role does myelination play in brain development?

It speeds conduction of nerve impulses. Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for an individual's genetic heritage?

Genotype Signup and view all the answers

What does environmental influence on gene expression refer to?

External factors modifying how genes are expressed. Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is associated with an increased risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)?

Low birth weight Signup and view all the answers

What defines kwashiorkor in children?

Swelling in the abdomen and feet due to water retention. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT an observed benefit of breastfeeding?

Higher chances of developing respiratory infections Signup and view all the answers

Which neurotransmitter is mentioned in relation to abnormal brain stem functioning linked to SIDS?

Serotonin Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of marasmus in children?

Child is weak with pronounced malnutrition Signup and view all the answers

In which age range do signs of Kwashiorkor typically appear?

Between 1 and 3 years Signup and view all the answers

What is one major function performed by the temporal lobes?

Language processing Signup and view all the answers

What is the average length and weight of a fetus during the fetal period at 20 weeks?

About 12 inches and close to 1 pound Signup and view all the answers

During which trimester does the fetus first show signs of thumb sucking?

Second Trimester Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes the condition known as teratology?

Study of birth defects and their causes Signup and view all the answers

What effect does a higher dose of teratogens generally have on prenatal development?

Greater dose, greater the effect Signup and view all the answers

Which drug is NOT typically classified as a teratogen?

Vitamin C Signup and view all the answers

What is a common consequence of maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy?

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) Signup and view all the answers

Which maternal factor can increase the risk of negative prenatal outcomes?

Maternal age over 35 years Signup and view all the answers

What defines the first stage of the birth process?

Uterine contractions lasting 6-12 hours Signup and view all the answers

What is the Apgar scale primarily used to assess?

Newborn's health after birth Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true regarding the weight of low birth weight infants?

They weigh less than 5½ pounds at birth Signup and view all the answers

What defines a very low birth weight infant?

Weighs less than 3 pounds and 4 ounces Signup and view all the answers

Which type of birth involves surgical removal of the baby from the uterus?

Cesarean delivery Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following methods is NOT a characteristic of natural childbirth?

Use of anesthesia Signup and view all the answers

What effect does maternal depression have during and after pregnancy?

Linked to increased risk of autism spectrum disorders Signup and view all the answers

How long does the average bit of the postpartum blues last after delivery?

1-2 weeks Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Development Concepts

Development begins at conception and continues throughout the lifespan, involving both growth and decline.
Plasticity refers to the capacity for change in response to environmental influences.
The study of development is multidisciplinary, integrating insights from psychology, sociology, anthropology, neuroscience, and medicine.

Contextual Influences

Development is shaped by historical, economic, social, and cultural factors, affecting normative age-graded and history-graded influences.
Normative age-graded influences include events like puberty or menopause that are typical for specific age groups.
Nonnormative life events refer to unusual occurrences with significant personal impact, such as personal trauma or unique experiences.

Lifespan Perspective

Development is lifelong, meaning no single period dominates growth or change.
It is multidimensional, affecting physical, cognitive, emotional, and social aspects simultaneously.
Development is multidirectional, involving growth, maintenance, and loss regulation, especially prominent in later adulthood.

Ethnicity, SES, and Gender

Ethnicity encompasses cultural heritage, nationality, race, religion, and language, influencing identity and experiences.
Socioeconomic status (SES) groups individuals based on occupational, educational, and economic characteristics, often implying inequality.
Gender refers to social and cultural characteristics attributed to males and females, impacting development experiences.

Dynamic and Cumulative Nature

Development involves a dynamic interplay between biology and the environment, fostering reciprocal influences in growth.
It is cumulative, where prior experiences and development stages affect future growth.

Contemporary Concerns in Development

Health and well-being related to lifestyle and psychological states are increasingly recognized as influential factors.
Parenting and education concerns relate to children's development and the role of technology in lives of families.
Sociocultural contexts shape development patterns concerning health, parenting, and educational practices.

Biological Processes of Development

Development is marked by biological changes, including physical growth, motor skills, and sensorimotor learning.
Infants develop motor skills through active engagement, where perception and action are interlinked.
Environmental factors and parental practices greatly influence motor development and skill acquisition.

Milestones in Infant Development

Infants' motor skills evolve through stages: head control in weeks, sitting with support by 2 months, independent sitting by 6-7 months, and standing alone by 10-12 months.
Motor development results from a combination of genetic predisposition and active efforts driven by motivation.### Non-Harmful Procedures and Research Ethics
Informed consent is essential before conducting any research.
Confidentiality must be maintained to protect participants' privacy.
Debriefing provides participants with information about the study after it concludes.
Eclectic theoretical orientation selects techniques from various theories for optimal outcomes.

Biological Beginnings in Development

Mitosis involves cellular reproduction resulting in two identical cells.
Meiosis creates gametes (sperm and eggs), leading to genetic diversity.
Fertilization occurs when sperm and egg combine to form a zygote.

Genetic Foundations of Development

Chromosomes are structures composed of DNA, containing genetic information.
A human has 23 pairs of chromosomes, forming their genotype.
Phenotype refers to observable traits, influenced by genotype and environmental factors.
Gene activity can be influenced by environmental elements, affecting traits and development.

Sources of Genetic Variability

Identical twins originate from a single zygote, resulting in genetically identical individuals.
Fraternal twins result from two separate fertilized eggs, similar to ordinary siblings.
Mutated genes can alter DNA segments, potentially leading to diseases.
Susceptibility genes increase vulnerability to diseases, while longevity genes promote healthy aging.

Genetic Principles in Heredity

The dominant-recessive principle determines trait expression based on gene dominance.
Sex-linked genes can lead to conditions such as hemophilia, primarily affecting males.
Chromosomal disorders like Down syndrome arise from an extra chromosome 21, leading to recognizable physical traits and developmental challenges.

Additional Genetic Disorders

Klinefelter syndrome affects males with an extra X chromosome, leading to various physical and developmental issues.
Turner syndrome involves females missing an X chromosome, resulting in short stature and fertility issues.
Fragile X syndrome is linked to an abnormal X chromosome and can cause intellectual disabilities.

Gene-Linked Abnormalities and Diagnoses

Phenylketonuria (PKU) prevents proper metabolism of phenylalanine due to a recessive gene.
Sickle-cell anemia, common in African Americans, causes red blood cells to become misshaped, impairing oxygen transport.

Reproductive Choices and Diagnostic Tests

Common prenatal diagnostic tests include ultrasound sonography, amniocentesis, and maternal blood screening.
Infertility, characterized by the inability to conceive after a year of unprotected intercourse, may require medical intervention.

Gene-Environment Interactions

Environmental influences can dramatically affect gene expression and individual traits, such as reactions to stress.
Genotype-environment correlations, including passive and evocative correlations, illustrate how genetics and environment shape development.

Prenatal Development Overview

Prenatal development progresses through distinct stages, susceptible to teratogens that may harm fetal development.
Adequate prenatal care is crucial for monitoring and supporting healthy fetal growth and preventing complications during birth.### Fetal Period
Begins at two months after conception, lasting for about 7 months until birth.
At 20 weeks, the fetus is approximately 12 inches long and weighs close to 1 pound.
Heartbeat can be heard using an ordinary stethoscope.
Fetus demonstrates reflexes such as thumb sucking and hiccups.
Physical features, including hair, eyelashes, and eyebrows, become noticeable.

First Trimester

Ranges from conception to 4 weeks; the zygote is less than 1/10 inch long.
Development of spinal cord, nervous system, gastrointestinal system, heart, and lungs.
By 8 weeks, the fetus grows to just over 1 inch; facial features start to form.
Significant movements and rudimentary breathing are observed.

Second Trimester

At 24 weeks, the fetus is about 14 inches long, weighing 1 to 1.5 pounds.
Skin develops a protective coating (vernix caseosa) and appears wrinkled.
Eyes open and waste matter begins to accumulate in the bowel.
The fetus shows strong grip and increased activity.

Third Trimester

At 28 weeks, approximately 16 inches long and weighs about 3 pounds.
Neurons in the fetal brain grow at an impressive rate of 250,000 per minute during early pregnancy.
By 32 weeks, the fetus weighs between 4 to 5 pounds and shows distinct sleep-wake cycles.
At 36 to 38 weeks, weights range from 6 to 7.5 pounds with skin less wrinkled and thicker vernix caseosa.

Teratology and Prenatal Hazards

Teratogen: Any agent that can cause birth defects or adversely affect cognitive/behavioral development.
The impact of teratogens varies based on exposure dosage, genetic susceptibility, and timing of exposure.
Prescription drugs (like antibiotics and hormones) and certain nonprescription drugs (like high doses of aspirin) can act as teratogens.
Psychoactive drugs (alcohol, nicotine, caffeine) are associated with significant risks, including fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) and developmental issues.

Environmental Hazards

Radiation, toxic waste, and chemical pollutants pose risks to fetal development.
Maternal diseases such as rubella, syphilis, and diabetes can have detrimental effects.

Maternal and Paternal Factors

Maternal nutrition, age, and emotional state can influence prenatal development.
Paternal factors, including age and exposure to harmful substances, also affect the embryo/fetus.

Birth Process

Comprises three stages: labor, delivery, and afterbirth.
The first stage involves uterine contractions lasting from 6 to 12 hours.
The second stage, when the baby moves through the birth canal, lasts approximately 45 minutes to an hour.
The third stage involves the expulsion of the placenta and umbilical cord.

Assessing the Newborn

The Apgar scale assesses newborn health based on heart rate, respiratory effort, muscle tone, body color, and reflex irritability at one and five minutes post-birth.

Preterm and Low Birth Weight Infants

Low birth weight: below 5.5 pounds; very low birth weight: below 3 pounds 4 ounces; extremely low birth weight: under 2 pounds.
Preterm infants are born before 37 weeks of gestation and may face various health and developmental challenges.

Postpartum Period

Lasts about 6 weeks, during which the mother's body adjusts back to nearly pre-pregnant state.
Postpartum blues are common (70%), while postpartum depression affects about 10% of women, requiring treatment options including medication and therapy.

Physical Development in Infancy

Growth patterns: Cephalocaudal (top down) and proximodistal (center outwards).
The brain develops rapidly with around 100 billion neurons at birth, necessitating protection from trauma.
Blooming and pruning of neural connections occur as the brain develops; unused connections are eliminated.

Neuroconstructivist View

Brain development is influenced by the interaction between biological processes and environmental contexts.

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Description

This quiz explores the concepts of change, learning, maturation, and development as they relate to language acquisition. It delves into the nuances of how a second or third language can be acquired early in life. Test your understanding of these foundational psychological principles.