PSYC 2P12 Chapter Notes - Chapter 2: Libido, Weaning, Oedipus Complex
29 Sep 2016
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Document Summary
Five major families of theories have been important in the study of human development. In non-scientific terms, theory implies that something is unproven or speculative. But, in scientific terms, it is an explanation or model based on observation, experimentation, and reasoning o. Been tested and confirmed as a general principle helping to explain and predict something (e. g. behaviour) Theories: explanations and interpretations of the data o. Scientists can make various interpretations of the data. Rooted in biological processes that have evolved as we adapt to, and survive in our environment. Attempt to explain our differences as individuals and as a species across generations. A nativism: humans possess unique genetic traits expressed in everyone, despite environment. Children learn language without instruction; researchers have found no other species that language ability o. Critics claim that it underestimates the impact of the environment. Ethology: genetically determined survival behaviours that have evolved due to natural selection.
