Explain the concept of the visual cliff experiment.
It's a test of depth perception in infants using a raised platform with a clear glass surface.
What does the visual cliff experiment demonstrate?
That infants have an innate understanding of depth perception, typically by 6-8 months.
Explain the significance of infant reflexes.
Their presence and strength indicate healthy neurological development in infants.
What triggers puberty?
Activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, leading to sex hormone production.
Describe the adolescent growth spurt.
A rapid increase in height and weight during adolescence, starting earlier in females than males.
What happens to reproductive ability in adulthood?
It peaks in early adulthood and then declines, with menopause in females and gradual fertility decline in males.
How do maternal illnesses affect fetal development?
Some illnesses can cross the placenta and harm the fetus.
How do genetic mutations affect fetal development?
Inherited or spontaneous changes can lead to abnormalities.
How can hormonal imbalances affect fetal development?
Mother's hormones can affect fetal development. Excess androgens can masculinize female fetuses, and insufficient thyroid hormone can impair brain development.
How do environmental factors affect fetal development?
Poor nutrition, lack of prenatal care, and toxins can impact fetal growth.
What are some age-related physical changes in adulthood?
Decreased mobility, flexibility, reaction time, and visual/auditory acuity.
What are teratogens?
Substances that can cause developmental malformations in a fetus.
Define critical periods in development.
Specific times when the brain is highly sensitive to particular experiences.
What is imprinting?
Rapid, instinctive learning during a critical period, forming attachment to the first moving object seen.
Define puberty.
The transition from childhood to adulthood, triggered by hormonal changes.
What are gross motor skills?
Movements involving large muscle groups, like walking and running.
What are fine motor skills?
Precise movements of hands and fingers, like grasping and drawing.
What is the rooting reflex?
An infant's automatic turning of the head toward a touch on the cheek, initiating sucking.
What are primary sex characteristics?
Reproductive organs that develop during puberty (e.g., testes, ovaries).
What are secondary sex characteristics?
Physical features that distinguish males and females but are not directly involved in reproduction (e.g., facial hair, breast development).
What is spermarche?
The beginning of sperm production in males during puberty.
What is menarche?
The beginning of menstruation in females during puberty.
What is presbyopia?
Age-related farsightedness.
How can understanding teratogens help pregnant women?
It helps them avoid harmful substances that could negatively affect their baby's development.
How is motor skill development important for infants?
It allows exploration, play, and greater independence.
How is the visual cliff experiment used in developmental psychology?
To study the emergence of depth perception in infants.
How does understanding critical periods affect language learning?
It highlights the importance of early language exposure for optimal development.
How can regular exercise help older adults?
It helps maintain mobility, flexibility, and overall function.
How does understanding puberty help adolescents?
It helps them understand the physical and emotional changes they are experiencing.
How can corrective devices help older adults?
Corrective devices can help with visual and auditory declines, improving quality of life.
How can a healthy lifestyle help adults?
A healthy lifestyle helps preserve function and quality of life in older adulthood.
