Physical, Cognitive, Emotional, and Social Development Through the Lifespan

Change is inevitable.

Psychologists strive to understand and explain how and why people change throughout life.

The principles ofnormative developmentwith specific milestones help professionals spot potential problems and provide early intervention for better outcomes.

Developmental psychologists can work with people of all ages to address roadblocks and support growth.

Still, they are also interested in learning about things that can disrupt developmental processes.

Developmental Psychology Theories

Developmental psychologists often consider awide array of theoriesto consider different aspects of human development.

Each of these periods of development represents a time when different milestones are typically achieved.

Developmental psychologists examine the physical,cognitive, andsocio-emotionalgrowth during this critical development period.

Psychologists such as Erik Erikson were especially interested in looking at how navigating this period leads toidentity formation.

Early Adult Development

This period of life is often marked by forming and maintaining relationships.

People facing such issues might seek the assistance of a developmental psychologist to buildhealthier relationshipsand combat emotional difficulties.

Erikson described this as the conflict betweengenerativity and stagnation.

Increased health concerns mark this period of development, and some individuals may experience mental declines related to dementia.

Theorist Erik Erikson also viewed the elder years as a time ofreflecting back on life.

Developmental psychologists may work with elderly patients to help them cope with issues related to the aging process.

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