Lifespan Development - Lecture One Flashcards
(23 cards)
What is the overall definition of development in lifespan psychology?
A lifelong process of generating new resources and adjusting to changes to maximize gains and minimize losses.
What are commonly examined dimensions in lifespan development?
Longevity, physical and mental health, cognitive functioning, social competence, productivity, perceived personal control, and life satisfaction.
What is the difference between criteria-oriented and process-oriented approaches to development?
Criteria-oriented: Focus on defining “successful development.”
Process-oriented: Focus on processes and conditions that foster success over time.
Who created the six dimensions of positive psychological functioning and when?
Ryff, 1989–1995.
What are Ryff’s six dimensions of positive psychological functioning?
Self-acceptance
Environmental mastery
Positive interpersonal relations
Purpose in life
Personal growth
Autonomy
What is a defining feature of the lifespan development approach?
Development occurs from birth to death, with no clear endpoint.
What are the characteristics of developmental trajectories?
Multidirectional: Involve gains and losses
Multifunctional: Serve multiple functions
Influenced by genetics, maturation, and personal history
According to Sroufe (2013), what are two key principles of development?
Development is cumulative.
Developmental pathways are probabilistic, not deterministic.
Define equifinality.
Different circumstances can lead to the same outcome.
Define multifinality.
Similar beginnings can result in different outcomes.
What influences developmental pathways?
Individual, family, and societal variables.
What is self-concept?
Our idea of ourselves based on perceptions of our characteristics, abilities, and behaviors.
What is the relationship between self-concept and pathology?
Lower self-concept increases the probability of psychological disorders.
What are the three components of Carl Rogers’ Humanistic Theory?
Self-image
Self-esteem
Ideal self
What is congruence according to Carl Rogers?
When self-concept aligns with reality.
What is incongruence and its impact?
A mismatch between actual and ideal self, often leading to depression and dysfunction.
How does self-concept develop?
Through interactions with others, stories we hear, and social/media influences.
Who developed Social Identity Theory and when?
Henri Tajfel, 2001.
What is the difference between personal and social identity?
Personal identity: Unique traits and characteristics
Social identity: Group memberships (e.g., religion, class, sports)
How does social identity influence self-concept?
It shapes emotions and behaviors by linking identity to group membership.
What are Bracken’s (1992) six dimensions of self-concept?
Academic
Affect
Competence
Family
Physical
Social
What is the process-oriented approach in lifespan development?
An approach that focuses on the processes and conditions that foster developmental success over time, emphasizing how development occurs rather than just outcomes.
What is Social Identity Theory?
A theory by Henri Tajfel (2001) that explains how a person’s self-concept is influenced by their membership in social groups, affecting emotions, behavior, and perception of self.
