Physical Development Across the Lifespan

Introduction

The topic of discussion is physical development throughout different life stages.
Emphasis on understanding key concepts for AP Psychology.
Guided notes and review packets available for additional support.

Stages: Germinal, Embryotic, Fetal.
- Not required for AP Psychology, but understanding factors influencing development is crucial.
Factors Influencing Development:
- Teratogens: Substances causing birth defects (e.g., Alcohol, Tobacco, Drugs).
  - Example: Alcohol can lead to Fetal Alcohol Syndrome.
- Maternal Illness: Diseases or infections affecting fetal health.
  - Importance of regular checkups for early detection and intervention.
- Genetic Mutations: Spontaneous or inherited, affecting development.
  - Example: Down syndrome (extra chromosome 21).
- Hormones: Chemical messengers impacting development.
  - Imbalances can affect brain development and behavior.
- Environmental Factors: External elements like pollution, stress, affecting development.
Interactions: Factors often interact, affecting fetal development in combination.

Infant Reflexes: Involuntary movements aiding survival, indicating neurological health.
- Examples: Palmer grasp, Planter grasp, Babinsky reflex, Rooting reflex.
Physical Milestones:
- Development order is consistent (e.g., rolling over before sitting up).
- Influenced by genetic, environmental, or cultural factors.
Motor Skills:
- Gross Motor Skills: Larger movements like crawling.
- Fine Motor Skills: Smaller movements like holding a spoon.

Visual Cliff Experiment: Demonstrates development of depth perception.
Critical and Sensitive Periods:
- Critical Period: Time for essential skill development (e.g., language).
- Sensitive Period: Brain is primed for learning certain skills, more flexible than critical periods.

Physical Changes:
- Onset of Puberty: Hormonal changes, emotional swings, development of sex characteristics.
- Primary Sex Characteristics: Directly related to reproduction (e.g., menarche in girls).
- Secondary Sex Characteristics: Indirect traits (e.g., broader shoulders in men).
- Adolescent Growth Spurt: Rapid increase in height and weight.

Early Adulthood: Physical peak in 20s and 30s.
Middle and Late Adulthood:
- Gradual physical decline, reduction in muscle mass, flexibility, slower reaction times, hearing and vision decrease.
- Menopause in women: End of menstrual cycle, symptoms include hot flashes, mood changes.
- Testosterone Decline in men: Affects muscle mass and energy levels.

Aging involves continuous physical changes.
Resources like review packets are available for deeper understanding and exam preparation.
Encouragement to explore guided resources for academic success.