Lifespan development in psychology explores the changes from conception to death, including physical, cognitive, and emotional growth. It examines the balance between genetics (nature) and environmental influences (nurture), the continuity vs. discontinuity of development, and the dynamics of stability and change. The field also considers factors affecting lifespan and life expectancy, utilizes diverse research methodologies, and is informed by various developmental theories and concepts.
Show More
Lifespan development is a comprehensive field within psychology that examines the changes individuals undergo from conception to death
Lifespan development encompasses physical, cognitive, social, emotional, and moral development
The nature versus nurture debate is a foundational aspect of understanding human development, examining the interplay between inherited genetic factors and environmental influences
Developmental theories differ in their views on whether development is a continuous, gradual change or a series of distinct, age-related stages
Developmental theories are also divided into those that support a continuous view of development and those that support a discontinuous view, based on the role of nature and nurture
The stability versus change debate in lifespan development focuses on the extent to which individuals maintain their personal characteristics versus their capacity for change
Human lifespan and life expectancy are influenced by genetics, socioeconomic status, access to healthcare, and lifestyle choices
As of recent data, the global average life expectancy is approximately 73 years, with variations across different regions
Lifestyle factors such as smoking, poor nutrition, and sedentary behavior can significantly reduce lifespan and life expectancy
Researchers utilize longitudinal, cross-sectional, cohort-sequential, and retrospective studies to explore human growth and change
Developmental psychologists categorize the human lifespan into eight stages, each marked by unique developmental tasks, challenges, and milestones
Maturation, assimilation and accommodation, critical periods, and brain plasticity are core concepts integral to the field of developmental psychology
00
Key domains of lifespan development
Physical, cognitive, social, emotional, moral development.
01
Nature vs. Nurture in development
Examines genetic inheritance vs. environmental factors like education, culture.
02
Continuity vs. Discontinuity debate
Discusses if development is gradual and continuous or a series of distinct stages.
