Chapter 1: Problem 5

Describe how the study of lifespan development expanded.

Short Answer

Expert verified

The study of lifespan development expanded from focusing primarily on childhood development before the 20th century, to including adolescence as a unique period of life during the 20th century, to later theories encompassing development during the entire lifespan. Milestones such as Terman's longitudinal design study gave major insights into the field. Today, lifespan development also tackles issues such as aging and chronic illness.

Step by step solution

Beginnings of Lifespan Development Study

Discuss the start of the study of lifespan development. Prior to the 20th century, children were often viewed simply as mini adults. During the 20th century, however, psychologists started to see childhood and adolescence as unique periods of life. They realized that individuals continue to develop and change throughout life.

Key Milestones in Lifespan Development

Next, highlight key milestones in the development of lifespan development study. One such is the longitudinal design study instituted by Lewis Terman in 1921, which followed the lives of gifted children into adulthood. This gave considerable insight into child and later lifespan development.

Shift in Perspective

Discuss how the perspective in studying lifespan development has shifted over time. Early theories often focused on childhood development, but later theories encompassed development throughout the entire lifespan.

Current State and Roles

Nowadays, the study focuses not only on understanding the physical and cognitive changes that occur as we age, but also on grappling with issues such as how to cope with chronic illness, or how to maintain a high quality of life in the final years.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

Full Textbook Solutions
Get detailed explanations and key concepts
Unlimited Al creation
Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...
Ads-free access
To over 500 millions flashcards
Money-back guarantee
We refund you if you fail your exam.

Start your free trial

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!

Recommended explanations on Psychology Textbooks

View all explanations

What do you think about this solution?

We value your feedback to improve our textbook solutions.

Describe how the study of lifespan development expanded.

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Beginnings of Lifespan Development Study

Key Milestones in Lifespan Development

Shift in Perspective

Current State and Roles

One App. One Place for Learning.

Most popular questions from this chapter

Recommended explanations on Psychology Textbooks

Schizophrenia

Personality in Psychology

Scientific Investigation

Biopsychology

Cognition

Social Psychology

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.