Learning Objectives

These are the concepts and the learning objectives for Chapter 12. Read them carefully as part of your preliminary survey of the chapter.

Nature and Nurture: The Enduring Developmental Issue

1. Define developmental psychology and discuss various topics of study within the field, especially the influence of nature and nurture on human development. (pp. 354-356)

2. Distinguish among cross-sectional, longitudinal, and cross-sequential research methods. (p. 357)

Prenatal Development: From Conception to Birth

3. Describe the major events that occur from conception to birth. (pp. 357-361)

4. Discuss genetic abnormalities and environmental influences that affect prenatal development. (pp. 361-362)

The Extraordinary Newborn

5. Describe the appearance and behavior of the neonate. (pp. 364-365)

6. Discuss the sensory and perceptual capacities of newborn infants and their typical course of development. (pp. 365-366)

The Growing Child: Infancy Through Middle Childhood

7. Describe the physical and social development of the infant and child, including attachment issues, the role of the father, peer social relationships, and the influence of day care. (pp. 367-372)

8. Describe the four parenting styles and their effect on children's social development. (pp. 372-373)

9. Outline and describe the first four psychosocial stages of development as identified by Erik Erikson. (pp. 373-374)

10. Outline and describe the cognitive developmental stages identified by Jean Piaget, including criticisms of the stage approach. (pp. 374-378)

11. Explain the information-processing approach to cognitive development, as well as Lev Vygotsky's sociocultural approach. (pp. 378-380)

12. Discuss specific child-rearing practices that have been associated with maximizing competence in children. (pp. 381-382)