Developmental Psychology
This branch focuses on the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development of individuals across the lifespan. Here's an overview of the major aspects:
1. Theories of Development
This branch focuses on the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development of individuals across the lifespan. Here's an overview of the major aspects:
1. Theories of Development
- Jean Piaget's Cognitive Development Theory:
- Sensorimotor Stage (0–2 years): Learning through sensory experiences.
- Preoperational Stage (2–7 years): Developing symbolic thinking but struggling with logic.
- Concrete Operational Stage (7–11 years): Understanding logical concepts and conservation.
- Formal Operational Stage (12+ years): Abstract and hypothetical thinking.
- Erik Erikson's Psychosocial Development Theory:
- Emphasizes challenges at each stage, such as trust vs. mistrust (infancy) and identity vs. role confusion (adolescence).
- Lev Vygotsky's Sociocultural Theory:
- Highlights the role of social interaction and cultural tools in learning.
2. Prenatal Development and Birth
- Stages of prenatal development:
- Germinal Stage: Conception to 2 weeks.
- Embryonic Stage: 2–8 weeks, when organs begin to form.
- Fetal Stage: 9 weeks to birth, focusing on growth and maturation.
- Factors affecting development: Genetics, nutrition, and teratogens (e.g., drugs, alcohol).
3. Cognitive and Emotional Development in Childhood
- Cognitive Development: Language acquisition, problem-solving, and memory growth.
- Emotional Development: Attachment styles (e.g., secure, avoidant, ambivalent) as studied by Bowlby and Ainsworth.
4. Adolescence and Identity Formation
- Adolescence involves rapid physical and psychological changes.
- Identity Development (Erikson’s stage of identity vs. role confusion) focuses on exploring self-concept, goals, and beliefs.
- Common challenges include peer pressure and emotional regulation.
5. Aging and Lifespan Development
- Focuses on adulthood and aging processes:
- Early Adulthood: Establishing careers and relationships.
- Middle Adulthood: Managing work-life balance and generativity (Erikson).
- Late Adulthood: Coping with physical decline, memory changes, and end-of-life issues.