Developmental Psychology

20 Developmental Psychology Terms with Meanings and Examples

1. Development: The process of growth and change over time.

• Example: Child development involves physical, cognitive, and social changes.

2. Lifespan Development: The study of how individuals change throughout their lives.

• Example: Lifespan development examines changes from infancy to old age.

3. Nature vs. Nurture: A debate about the relative importance of genetics and environment in shaping development.

• Example: The nature vs. nurture debate explores how biology and experience interact to influence behavior.

4. Cognition: The mental processes involved in acquiring, processing, and storing information.

• Example: Cognitive development includes changes in thinking, perceiving, remembering, and problem-solving.

5. Piaget’s Theory: A theory of cognitive development that proposes four stages: sensorimotor, preoperational, concrete operational, and formal operational.

• Example: Piaget’s theory describes how children’s thinking becomes more abstract and logical over time.

6. Vygotsky’s Theory: A theory of cognitive development that emphasizes the role of social interaction and culture in shaping thinking.

• Example: Vygotsky’s theory highlights the importance of the zone of proximal development, where children learn with the help of more knowledgeable others.

7. Socialization: The process by which individuals learn the norms, values, and behaviors of their society.

• Example: Socialization is essential for becoming a functioning member of society.

8. Attachment: The emotional bond between a child and their caregiver.

• Example: Attachment is crucial for a child’s social and emotional development.

9. Temperament: The individual differences in emotional reactivity and self-regulation.

• Example: Temperament is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors.

10. Puberty: The period of physical changes that occur as a person reaches sexual maturity.

• Example: Puberty involves changes in hormone levels, physical growth, and sexual development.

11. Adolescence: The transitional period between childhood and adulthood.

• Example: Adolescence is a time of rapid physical, cognitive, and social changes.

12. Emerging Adulthood: The period between adolescence and adulthood, typically ages 18-25.

• Example: Emerging adulthood is a time of exploration and identity formation.

13. Adulthood: The stage of life that follows adolescence.

• Example: Adulthood is characterized by increased responsibility and independence.

14. Aging: The process of growing older.

• Example: Aging is accompanied by physical and cognitive changes.

15. Cognitive Aging: The changes in cognitive abilities that occur with age.

• Example: Cognitive aging can include declines in memory, attention, and problem-solving skills.

16. Socioemotional Development: The development of emotions, personality, and social relationships.

• Example: Socioemotional development is influenced by both biological and environmental factors.

17. Moral Development: The development of ethical principles and values.

• Example: Kohlberg’s theory of moral development proposes six stages of moral reasoning.

18. Identity Development: The process of forming a sense of self.

• Example: Identity development is influenced by factors such as family, peers, and culture.

19. Resilience: The ability to bounce back from adversity.

• Example: Resilience is important for coping with life’s challenges.

20. Well-being: A state of positive health and happiness.

• Example: Promoting well-being involves addressing physical, mental, and social needs.