01:830:101 Chapter Notes - Chapter 8: Developmental Psychology, Cognitive Development, Twin

• School: Rutgers University
• Department: Psychology
• Course: 01:830:101
• Professor: Foels

Document Summary

Development refers to the changes that occur in our bodies, minds, and social functioning from conception to death. The goal of developmental psychology is to understand the struggles and triumphs of everyday people as they journey through different stages of life. Physical development - begins the moment a sperm unites with an egg, and continues till we take our final breath. Maturation - physical growth beginning with conception and ending when the body stops growing and developing. Follows a progression that is universal in nature and biologically driven. Changes are common across all cultures and ethnicities. Cognitive development - changes in memory, problem-solving abilities, decision making, language, and intelligence. Tends to follow a universal course early in life, but there is enormous variation in the way cognitive abilities change, particularly as people get older. Socioemotional development - refers to social behaviors, emotions, and the changes people experience with respect to their relationships, feelings, and overall disposition.