AP Psychology Unit 3 Notes: Development and Learning

Overview

• Unit 3 focuses on applied psychology, examining how humans develop across the lifespan.
• Topics include physical, cognitive, and social development.
• Learning methods discussed include classical conditioning, operant conditioning, and observational learning.
• Previous units covered behaviorist perspectives, expanding here with more details.

Key Terms

• Nature: Refers to genetic factors.
• Nurture: Refers to environmental factors.
• Zone of Proximal Development: Concept by Lev Vygotsky, describing the range of tasks a child can complete with guidance.
• Object Permanence: Understanding that objects continue to exist even when they cannot be seen.
• Concepts of Conservation: Understanding that properties of objects remain the same despite changes in form or arrangement.
• Abstract Reasoning: Ability to think about objects and ideas not physically present.
• Phonemes: Smallest units of sound in a language; English has about 44.
• Temperament: Typical emotional response to stress.
• Parenting Styles:
  • Authoritarian: Strict rules, obedience valued over discussion.
  • Permissive: Lack of clear guidelines, rules are inconsistent.
  • Authoritative: Reasonable, consistent rules with explanations.
• Classical Conditioning: Learning by association, as demonstrated by Pavlov.
• Operant Conditioning: Learning through consequences, researched by Edward Thorndike.
• Latent Learning: Learning that becomes obvious once a reinforcement is given, studied by Edward Tolman.
• Insight Learning: Sudden realization of a problem's solution, studied by Wolfgang Köhler.

Erikson's Psychosocial Stage Theory

• Trust vs. Mistrust: Infants learn whether they can trust their caregivers.
• Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt: Toddlers learn to exert control over their bodies.
• Initiative vs. Guilt: Children explore their environment and ask questions.
• Industry vs. Inferiority: Formal education begins; children evaluate their abilities.
• Identity vs. Role Confusion: Adolescents explore different social identities.
• Intimacy vs. Isolation: Young adults balance self-identity with relationships.
• Generativity vs. Stagnation: Adults assess their life paths and contributions.
• Integrity vs. Despair: Reflection on life accomplishments and satisfaction.

Additional Resources

• Links provided to additional resources and study aids related to AP Psychology and other AP subjects.
• Includes exam strategies, key terms, and study tips for various AP exams.