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Semester 2: Developmental Psychology I
Conception Through Birth - Developmental Stages, Prenatal Period, Childbirth
Conception Through Birth - Developmental Stages, Prenatal Period, Childbirth
Conception
Conception occurs when a sperm fertilizes an ovum. This process typically takes place in the fallopian tubes. The resulting zygote undergoes cell division and begins the journey to the uterus.
Prenatal Development Stages
Factors Influencing Prenatal Development
Several factors can affect prenatal development, including maternal health, nutrition, substances (like alcohol and drugs), and environmental exposures. Genetic factors also play a critical role in influencing development.
Childbirth Process
Childbirth, or labor, typically occurs in three stages: 1. Dilation of the cervix; 2. Delivery of the baby; 3. Delivery of the placenta. Each stage involves a series of contractions and physiological changes.
Postnatal Considerations
After birth, the newborn requires immediate care, including assessing vital signs and ensuring proper attachment to breastfeeding. Early bonding and attachment between parents and the newborn are crucial for emotional development.
Infancy - Characteristics, Developmental Tasks, Hazards
Infancy - Characteristics, Developmental Tasks, Hazards
Characteristics of Infancy
Infancy is the stage from birth to 2 years. Key characteristics include rapid physical growth, sensory and motor development, attachment formation, and the emergence of basic communication skills.
Developmental Tasks in Infancy
Developmental tasks during infancy include establishing trust through responsive caregiving, developing sensory and motor skills, initiating early social interactions, and laying the foundation for language development.
Hazards in Infancy
Common hazards in infancy include health risks such as malnutrition, infectious diseases, unsafe sleeping practices leading to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), and developmental delays which can result from lack of stimulation or neglect.
Babyhood - Physical and Emotional Development, Socialization, Personality
Babyhood - Physical and Emotional Development, Socialization, Personality
Physical Development
During babyhood, significant growth occurs in the first year of life. Infants typically double their birth weight by six months and triple it by the end of the first year. Motor skills develop in a predictable sequence, beginning with head control, rolling over, sitting up, crawling, and eventually walking. Fine motor skills also emerge through grasping and reaching for objects.
Emotional Development
Emotional development in infancy includes the formation of attachment to caregivers. This bond is crucial for social and emotional well-being. Infants display emotions such as joy, anger, and fear, which are important for communication. Secure attachment leads to positive emotional outcomes, while insecure attachment can result in difficulties later in life.
Socialization
Socialization in babyhood begins with interaction between the infant and caregivers. This includes non-verbal communication, such as eye contact and facial expressions. Infants learn social cues and begin to engage in simple social behaviors, such as smiling and babbling. Early experiences with caregivers and other children lay the foundation for social skills.
Personality Development
Personality development starts in infancy as babies exhibit individual temperamental differences. Some infants may be more adaptable and easygoing, while others may be more sensitive and difficult. These traits can influence future personality and social interactions. Early experiences and interactions with caregivers play a vital role in shaping a child's emerging personality.
Early Childhood - Developmental Tasks, Speech, Emotions, Moral Development
Early Childhood - Developmental Tasks, Speech, Emotions, Moral Development
Developmental Tasks
During early childhood, children achieve various developmental milestones such as gross and fine motor skills, cognitive development, social interaction, and emotional regulation. Key tasks include learning to walk, run, grasp objects, and engage in play that supports learning and social skills.
Speech Development
Speech development is crucial in early childhood and typically progresses through stages. Children begin with cooing and babbling, moving on to single words and simple phrases. Vocabulary expands rapidly during this period, influenced by interactions with caregivers and exposure to language.
Emotional Development
Emotional development involves recognizing and expressing feelings. Children learn to manage emotions, develop empathy, and establish relationships. Early experiences, such as secure attachments with caregivers, play a significant role in shaping emotional health.
Moral Development
Moral development begins in early childhood as children learn the differences between right and wrong. Influences include parental guidance, cultural norms, and peer interactions. Concepts such as fairness, sharing, and understanding consequences are explored as children grow.
Late Childhood - Physical, Emotional, Social Development, Interests, Personality
Late Childhood - Physical, Emotional, Social Development, Interests, Personality
Physical Development
During late childhood, typically ages 6-12, children experience steady growth in height and weight. Their motor skills improve significantly, allowing for greater coordination and physical activities. This stage often sees an increase in strength and endurance, enabling participation in sports and organized play. Children refine gross and fine motor skills, which enhance their ability to perform tasks like writing, playing musical instruments, and engaging in interactive games.
Emotional Development
Emotionally, late childhood is a time for developing a sense of self and understanding complex emotions. Children begin to experience a wider range of feelings and learn to manage them. This stage marks the development of emotional regulation, where children start to express feelings appropriately. They also gain empathy and the ability to recognize emotions in others, which is critical for building friendships and social connections.
Social Development
Socially, late childhood is characterized by increased peer interaction and the formation of friendships. Children begin to value peer relationships and may experience peer pressure. They learn important social skills such as cooperation, sharing, and conflict resolution. Peer groups become significant, and children engage in group activities that foster teamwork and collaboration.
Interests
Interests in late childhood often diversify as children explore various hobbies and activities. They may develop specific preferences in sports, arts, academics, and other areas. This exploration helps shape their identity and can influence future career choices. Participation in extracurricular activities enhances their skills and provides a platform for socialization.
Personality
Personality continues to develop during late childhood, with children starting to exhibit traits like conscientiousness, agreeableness, and openness. They become more aware of their own strengths and weaknesses and begin to form a self-concept. Experiences during this stage, including family dynamics and peer interactions, significantly influence personality development, shaping how children view themselves and relate to others.
