DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY: FROM PRENATAL GROWTH TO LATE ADULTHOOD

Abstract

The scientific discipline of developmental psychology is devoted to comprehending the processes of change and growth that take place during a person's lifetime. In the past, psychologists focused mostly on the development of children, while contemporary viewpoints stress that development is a continuous process that lasts from conception to old age. Using both traditional and modern theories, such as Freud's psychosexual model, Erikson's psychosocial stages, Piaget's cognitive developmental theory, Vygotsky's socio-cultural approach, and Bronfenbrenner's ecological systems theory, this chapter examines the complex nature of development. Development is further highlighted by Baltes' life-span approach as being multidirectional, malleable, and influenced by both biological and environmental factors. Beginning with prenatal growth and continuing through infancy, childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and late life, the three basic developmental domains - physical, cognitive, and socio-emotional are analysed in connection to various life stages. Modern topics like cultural effects and how technology shapes human growth are also covered in this chapter. This chapter emphasises the value of a comprehensive, lifetime approach to comprehending how people adapt, develop, and change across diverse situations by fusing theory, empirical research, and practical viewpoints. As a result, developmental psychology not only clarifies patterns of change but also influences healthcare interventions, educational strategies, and policies that improve human welfare across generations.