LESSON ONE

Lecture –

The study of human development is a science that looks to understand how people change and develop over a lifetime (conception through death) by researching patterns of development in relation to growth and changes among groups of people. The reason that the study of human development is considered a science is because it follows the same principles of any science, which is that it depends on theories, data, analysis, critical thinking, and methods similar to those used in any science. The primary focus of developmental science to seek understanding on how and why people move through the various stages of human development, and through the use of research and scientific methods, answer the questions associated with it. Its focus is also on populations of people universally across the board, both young and old, and from every group. The life-span perspective uses five characteristics to conduct studies, which are multidirectional, multicontextual, multicultural, multidisciplinary and plasticity. Some other research and scientific methods used to evaluate these populations are observation, experiments, surveys, case studies, cross-sectional research, longitudal research, and systems approaches. The goal of these studies are to systematically gain knowledge by using the five basic steps of research, which are the formulation of a research question, developing a hypothesis, testing the hypothesis, drawing a conclusion and then presenting the findings.

The field of developmental psychology, like all other fields of psychology, uses theories to provide “systematic principles and generalizations that provide a coherent framework for studying and explaining development”. As is the case with any scientific study, a theory usually begins with a series of questions that form a basis for a hypothesis to begin researching. The text notes that theories are very useful in that they help generate discoveries” and then “offer insight and guidance for the basic questions being addressed. Theories are generally broken down into three types, which are grand theories, minitheories and emergent theories. Within the group of grand theories you will find the work of some of the greatest and controversial minds in psychology, such as Freud, Erikson, Watson, Pavlov, Skinner and Piaget. From these pioneering theorists have come Psychoanalytical Theory, Behaviorism Theory, and Cognitive Theory. Emergent theorist, such as Vygotsky, have brought to us Sociocultural Theory, Epigenetic Theory and Nature vs Nurture Theories. It is important to remember that although all of these theories have contributed greatly to the understanding of human development, they are just that – theories. Each theory provides us with useful ideas and ways of viewing human development, however none of these are infallible, which is why most developmental psychologists adopt various theories as opposed to adopting just one.

It is believed that genetics also play a big part in who we are psychologically and developmentally. Our DNA, or genetic code, contains the instructions for who we are. These genetic codes have become valuable research tools for psychologists, specifically in relation to twin studies. Behavior genetics provides us with a means to study the genetic originals of psychological characteristics, such as personality patterns, psychological disorders and intellectual ability. Current researching is looking at the possible genetic connections with disease and mental disorders, such as Alzheimer's, schizophrenia, addiction, cancer and birth defects. The focus on genetic abnormalities has brought to the forefront genetic testing and genetic counseling as a means of prevention and treatment of many of these diseases and disorders.

Understanding developmental psychology begins with understanding life from conception. The first two weeks of prenatal growth is called the germinal period, which is characterized by the Zygote developing into an organism and implanting itself in the lining of the uterus. The next phase of development is the embryonic period (the eight weeks after conception), which is characterized by the beating of the heart and the development of the eyes, ears, nose and mouth. The final stage, which is the fetal period, is from the marked from the 9th week on until birth. It is during this period that the body structures are formed and becomes the basis of what we consider human. It is at the 22nd week after conception that the fetus is considered to be viable and has a brain that is sufficiently mature to control the basic body functions. The birth process begins with contractions within the mother’s uterus as a means to move the fetus through the birth canal and into the world. There are many complications that can result during the birth process, including emotional and psychological. Post Partum depression is a common psychological reaction experienced by mothers the birth process, and is usually associated with the trauma of giving birth.

Discussion Questions –

Introduction Question - Please introduce yourself to the class, tell us a little about yourself, and share what you hope to learn about the process of human development.

1 - Explain why the field of Development Psychology is considered a science. Support your answers with research from the text and other journal research. Respond to the postings of at least two other learners in the course. Be sure to use proper APA format in your post.

2 – Discuss one of the Grand Developmental Theories in terms of its basic principles and why you specifically liked this theory. Respond to the postings of at least two other learners in the course. Be sure to use proper APA format in your post.

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