Question 1

The nature-nurture relationship in the early months and years of life is dominated by the influence of biology.

Accepted Answer

The nature-nurture relationship is complex, and while biology plays a significant role, environmental factors (nurture) also have a substantial impact on development in the early months and years of life.

Question 2

Theories of development suggest that development can be continuous or discontinuous.Which argument has more convincing research evidence?

Accepted Answer

The debate over whether development is continuous or discontinuous has been a long-standing one in the field of developmental psychology. Both perspectives have garnered substantial research evidence, and the prevailing view may depend on the specific aspect of development being considered.

Continuous development, also known as the "gradualist" or "incremental" approach, suggests that development is a cumulative process that occurs gradually over time. This perspective is supported by research on cognitive and skill development, where improvements are often seen as incremental and quantitative. For example, studies on language acquisition and the development of motor skills typically show a gradual improvement over time, with new abilities building on previous ones.

On the other hand, discontinuous development, sometimes referred to as the "stage" approach, posits that development occurs in distinct stages, each characterized by qualitative changes that are different from the previous stages. This view is famously represented by Jean Piaget's theory of cognitive development, which outlines four stages of cognitive growth (sensorimotor, preoperational, concrete operational, and formal operational) that children are said to progress through. Similarly, Erik Erikson's psychosocial theory describes eight stages of personality development, each with its own central conflict and potential for growth.

Research evidence for discontinuous development is often found in studies that identify clear qualitative changes at certain points in development, such as the emergence of object permanence in infancy or the ability to think abstractly in adolescence. These changes are not simply more of the same skill, but rather represent a fundamental shift in the way individuals understand and interact with the world.

In reality, the distinction between continuous and discontinuous development may not be as clear-cut as the theories suggest. Some researchers argue for a more integrative approach that recognizes both continuous and discontinuous elements in development. For instance, while certain cognitive abilities may develop in stages, the transitions between stages can be gradual and overlapping, rather than abrupt.

Ultimately, the argument that has more convincing research evidence may depend on the specific domain of development being examined. Some aspects of development may be best explained by a continuous model, while others fit more neatly into a discontinuous framework. Additionally, individual differences and the influence of environmental factors can lead to variations in developmental patterns, making it difficult to generalize one theory as universally superior.

In conclusion, both continuous and discontinuous theories of development have convincing research evidence in different areas and aspects of development. The most comprehensive understanding of human development may come from considering both perspectives and recognizing that development can be both a gradual accumulation of skills and abilities and a series of significant, qualitative changes.

Question 3

Infants prefer stationary and familiar objects over moving and unfamiliar objects.

Accepted Answer

Infants generally show a preference for moving objects and novel stimuli, as these tend to attract their attention more than stationary and familiar objects. This preference aids in their learning and development by encouraging exploration and interaction with their environment.

Question 4

Theories of development such as Chomsky's biological theory have been rejected,as it is believed that a combination of nature and nurture contributes to development in a broad range of areas.

Accepted Answer

Modern research in the field of developmental psychology suggests that both genetics and environmental factors play a role in shaping various aspects of development. Therefore, theories that emphasize only one factor, such as Chomsky's biological theory that emphasizes genetics, have been challenged and modified to incorporate a broader understanding of development.

Question 5

The joint influence of biology and experience is predominantly observed in the early years of development compared to later stages of life.

Accepted Answer

While the joint influence of biology and experience is crucial in early development, it continues to play a significant role throughout the entire lifespan, affecting learning, behavior, and adaptation at every stage.

Question 6

Halford's structure mapping approach is useful to explain the complicated network of changes in behaviour,cognition and social functioning.

Accepted Answer

Halford's structure mapping approach is a cognitive theory that helps explain the complex changes in behaviour, cognition and social functioning by emphasizing the role of mental structures and their interactions. Therefore, the statement is true.

Question 7

The structure mapping approach and the dynamic-systems model are examples of domain-general theories.

Accepted Answer

Both the structure mapping approach and the dynamic-systems model are domain-general theories that can be applied to a wide range of domains or fields, rather than being specific to a particular area or discipline. The structure mapping approach involves finding similarities and correspondences between two or more structured representations, while the dynamic-systems model describes how systems change over time in response to inputs and interactions.

Question 8

The development of some parts of the central nervous system do not reach full maturity until adolescence.

Accepted Answer

This is true. The prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for decision-making, impulse control, and emotional regulation, does not fully develop until the mid-20s. Other areas of the brain related to language, spatial reasoning, and memory also continue to develop throughout adolescence.

Question 9

Culture is an important influence on development.Review research literature and discuss its role in child development,particularly in language and social development.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Culture is an important influence on development.Review...

Question 10

Some aspects of development are considered to be 'innate,' however children are also active learners.What can parents do to provide an environment that encourages their child's social,motor,cognitive and language development?

Accepted Answer

The answer of Some aspects of development are considered to...

Question 11

Which of the following is a consistent controversy in developmental psychology?
A) domain-specific versus domain-general approaches
B) nature vs/and nurture
C) continuous versus discontinuity in development
D) all of these answers are correct

Accepted Answer

All of these options are consistent controversies in developmental psychology. Domain-specific versus domain-general approaches relates to the debate about whether cognitive abilities are specific to particular domains or are general across different domains. Nature versus nurture refers to the influence of biology and the environment on development. Continuous versus discontinuous development debates whether development occurs gradually or in stages.

Question 12

Different aspects of human development are interconnected.For example,language development is related to cognitive development.

Accepted Answer

Language development involves the use of cognitive processes, such as memory, attention, and problem-solving. Therefore, language development and cognitive development are interconnected.

Quiz 13: Conclusions