Question

In 400 words, describe how these terms: Science of human development, lifespan perspective, cognitive development, multiple intelligence, IQ scores, multidirectional development, and genetic had significant impact on your understanding of Psychology. Define these terms and tell me why these terms had such an impact your your understanding of Psychology.

Answer 1

· Science of human development- Human development can be understood as a long series of changes which occur from the point of conception till death. These changes occur in one’s biological, neurological, and psychological domains. This term and concept helped me to know that development doesn’t only occur during childhood. It starts from the moment of conception and goes on till the person is alive. Also, it fascinated how so many areas of functionality in an individual develop through the lifespan.

· Lifespan perspective- Paul Baltes has explained the process of development is one that lasts throughout the lifespan of a person. Various other facets of development include multidimensionality, multidirectional, multidisciplinary and contextual as well as plastic. This definition helped me understand that development is not always in an upward direction and it does not happen in just one area. Also, certain area of development can be worked upon.

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· Cognitive development- Cognitive development is concerned with the area of thinking, perception, memory, decision making, problem solving, and belief systems. The most notable theory on this topic was given by Jean Piaget which is widely used. Learning about cognitive development is important because whole of our life depends on the way we perceive and make decisions about life.

· Multiple intelligence – Howard Gardner suggested that intelligence is not a single general ability; rather it is made up of various modalities. He specified eight types of specific intelligences instead of one. This was one eye opener. Usually people considered intelligence as being able to score high marks or get a degree. But, this helped me understand how intelligence has various facets. Each one of us is intelligent in our own ways.

· IQ scores- Intelligence Quotient is indicative of the level of intelligence an individual possesses. It is a final score which is derived from a standardized intelligence test. IQ is important part of psychology as it created a benchmark for intelligence assessment. No other score or value has been able to identify intelligence capacity as the IQ score.

· Multidirectional development- The various functions in a human being may not develop in the same linear form. Instead, development in one area might increase while other functions decrease as one ages. It helped me learn how certain skills may become more sharpened in late adulthood while some will see a decline.

· Genetics- Genetics is the science of genes, heredity, DNA, and genetic variation or mutation. Every human has a set of genes which express themselves through various traits which are passed on from one generation to the next. Genetics plays a crucial role in psychology as it has influence on our behavior, cognition, and personality. Various mental disorders have also been associated with genetics.