08 Human Development Free Online FlashCards

What is human development?

Human development is the pattern of change and continuity from conception through old age.

What can a developmental milestone checklist tell you—and what can it not do?

Milestone timing varies among individuals. A checklist can help track development, but it cannot by itself diagnose a developmental condition.

How can the prenatal period shape later development?

The body and brain form and grow before birth, and prenatal conditions can influence later health and development.

What are two ways developmental change can unfold over time?

Development can be gradual, such as vocabulary growth, or noticeable around transitions, such as puberty or starting school.

What are the three connected domains of human development?

Physical development concerns the body and movement; cognitive development concerns learning and thinking; social development concerns relationships, emotions, identity, and roles.

How can physical development affect learning and social interaction?

Improved mobility can let a child explore more independently, creating new opportunities to learn and interact.

Which abilities and connections develop rapidly during infancy?

Infants develop sensory abilities, movement, communication, and attachment to caregivers as they grow.

How does play support development in childhood?

Play gives children opportunities to practice cognitive and social skills.

What change in reasoning often develops during adolescence?

Adolescents become increasingly capable of abstract and hypothetical reasoning, though performance depends on the task and experience.

How do social priorities often shift during adolescence?

Peer relationships and identity exploration often become more prominent, while family relationships continue to matter.

How can cognition continue to develop in early adulthood?

Adults apply and refine cognitive abilities through education, work, and everyday problem-solving.

How can cognitive abilities change differently in middle adulthood?

Processing speed may become less efficient, while knowledge and experience-based skills can remain strong or grow.