SWRK 224 Lecture : SWRK 220 lecture notes.docx
Document Summary
The word development is used widely in our everyday talk, but what does it mean: it begins at conception and continues until death, it is characterized by 6 major issues: Two important process: maturation: biological development according to a plan contained in the genes, learning: our experiences produce relatively permanent changes in our feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. Development is the result of complex interactions between biological and environmental influences. Critical periods exist but they can be extended much more than previously thought. Dilemma: do developmental phenomena represent smooth progressions throughout the lifespan (red) or a series of abrupt shifts (blue): state theory: periods of time (plateau) during which a person"s activities have certain characteristics in common, e. g. , motor development. We are neither passive receptors nor in perfect control of our development (extremes are to be ruled out) Both active and passive processes play a role in shaping who we are. May 3, 2012 theories on human development.
