Describe the two major categories of lifespan development research.

Short Answer

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The two major categories of lifespan development research are quantitative development, which focuses on changes that can be expressed in numerical values and are measurable, and qualitative development, which focuses on changes that are abstract, like social behaviour and cognitive abilities.

Step by step solution

01

Describe the First Category: Quantitative Development

Quantitative development is the first major category of lifespan development research. It pertains to developmental changes that can be expressed in numerical increments, such as changes in height, weight, number of words known, or frequency of social interactions. These changes usually occur in a steady and predictable manner, and can thus be measured and graphed.
02

Describe the Second Category: Qualitative Development

Qualitative development is the second major category of lifespan development research. This refers to developmental changes that are more difficult to quantify and measure. They include more abstract aspects such as social behaviour, emotional responses, and cognitive abilities like problem-solving and reasoning. Researchers in this field focus on understanding the qualitative nature and implications of these changes rather than just documenting their occurrence.

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