1 Foundations and Theories of Lifespan Development Free Online FlashCards

What does lifespan development study?

Lifespan development is the scientific study of change and stability from conception through the end of life.

What are the four domains of development?

The four connected domains are physical and biological, cognitive, emotional, and social development.

How do nature and nurture relate in development?

Biological inheritance and experience work together; they are interacting influences, not competing explanations.

How does a hypothesis differ from a theory?

A theory is an organized explanation of observations; a hypothesis is a specific, testable prediction derived from an explanation.

Why does correlation alone not establish causation?

Correlation shows that factors vary together, but by itself does not establish that one caused the other; a third factor may influence both.

What does a cross-sectional study compare?

A cross-sectional study compares different age groups at one time. It is relatively quick, but group differences may reflect cohort effects.

What characterizes a longitudinal study?

A longitudinal study follows the same participants over time, revealing within-person change; it may take years and lose participants along the way.

What is a cohort effect?

A cohort effect occurs when differences between age groups reflect their distinct historical or cultural experiences rather than age alone.

What is the zone of proximal development?

The zone of proximal development is the range of tasks a learner can accomplish with suitable support.

What does attachment theory emphasize?

Attachment theory focuses on the emotionally significant bond between infants and caregivers. Responsive caregiving can provide a secure base for exploration.

How can people learn through social learning?

Social learning theory explains that people can learn by observing and imitating others.

How do classical and operant conditioning differ?

Classical conditioning involves learning to associate stimuli; operant conditioning concerns how consequences affect the likelihood of behavior.