Human Growth and Development

Chapter 1: Foundations of Development Overview

This chapter establishes the foundations for understanding human development across the lifespan. We delve into various theoretical perspectives that inform our understanding of learning, including individual learning theories that explain how knowledge is acquired, stage-based theories that chart predictable stages of development, and contextual theories that emphasize how one’s environment shapes growth. Additionally, this chapter will explore strategies and methodologies for researching development, especially research designs and data collection methods Learning Objectives ●​ Describe individual learning theories, stage-based theories, and contextual theories about human development. ●​ Discuss the strengths and limitations of different theoretical perspectives on human development. ●​ Explain the role that research designs, data collection methods, and challenges of causal inference play in studying development. ●​ Identify appropriate research methods for investigating specific developmental questions. ●​ Apply your understanding of theories and methodologies to analyze real-world examples of development. A. The Basics The understanding of psychological development has evolved significantly over time. Early psychological theories suggested that development primarily occurred during childhood and adolescence, with less focus on later stages of life. However, modern research shows that development is a lifelong process, extending from birth through to old age, and that various aspects of development (cognitive, emotional, social, etc.) continue to evolve throughout the lifespan. Lifespan development means all the changes people go through in their body, mind, emotions, and social life, from birth to death. These changes are shaped by biology, culture, environment, and life experiences. At the end of the chapter, you should be able to:

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