Human Growth and Development

Life Expectancy Through History Prehistoric Times: Life expectancy was low in prehistoric and ancient times. Many people died during infancy or childhood due to infectious diseases and malnutrition. It is estimated that the average life expectancy during these periods was often below 30 years. Middle Ages and Renaissance: Life expectancy increased slightly during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. It typically ranged from 30 to 40 years, depending on social class, region, and access to resources. 18 th and 19 th Centuries: Life expectancy began to improve in some parts of the world, particularly in Western Europe and North America. The average life expectancy during this time ranged from the mid-30s to the mid-40s due to better living conditions. 20 th Century: Advances in healthcare, vaccines, sanitation, and nutrition raised the global average life expectancy to 50 to 60 years. 21 st Century: By the early 2000s, the global average life expectancy had reached over 70 years; in many developed countries, it exceeded 80 years. However, large differences still exist between countries due to variations in healthcare systems and socio-economic conditions. B. Principles of Development Developmental psychology explains how people grow, change, and adapt throughout life. These principles highlight the complexity of human development and underscore the interplay between biology, environment, and individual choices. Some of the key principles of development are: ●​ Development is Lifelong: Development is a continuous process that happens from conception to old age, with growth and change at every stage. ●​ Development is Multidimensional: Includes physical, cognitive, emotional, and social changes that interact and influence each other. ●​ Development is Multidirectional: Growth may occur in one area while decline happens in another. For example, physical strength may decrease, but wisdom may grow. ●​ Development is Contextual: Family, culture, and socioeconomic status all shape development. ●​ Development is Plastic: Plasticity is the ability to change or adapt to new experiences and circumstances throughout life, including brain adaptability. ●​ Development is Influenced by Heredity and Environment: Genetic factors and environmental influences (nature and nurture) interact to shape development. ●​ Development is Individual and Cumulative: Each person’s growth is unique, and past experiences build on one another over time. ●​ Development is Multicultural: Cultural contexts influence development, as values and practices vary across societies, shaping cognitive, emotional, and social growth.

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