Week 1 Journal Cuyler (1)

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Southern New Hampshire University *

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632

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Psychology

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Nov 24, 2024

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1 Core Conflicts Jhantzen Cuyler Southern New Hampshire University PSY 632 Dr. Matson July 9, 2023
2 Core Conflicts Developmental psychology, a branch of psychology, explores the progression and transformation of individuals throughout their lives. Key topics and debates in the field include: Nature vs. Nurture: The debate on the relative roles of genetics (nature) and environment (nurture) in human development has long engaged both psychologists and philosophers. While theories of innate ideas have been proposed by figures like Plato and Descartes, others like John Locke have contended for the mind being a tabula rasa influenced by experience. Today, most agree that both genetic and environmental factors interact in human development, exemplified by how puberty, a biological occurrence, may be influenced by environmental factors such as diet and nutrition (Verywell Mind, n.d.)1. Continuity vs. Discontinuity: Questions persist on whether human development follows a smooth, continuous trajectory or progresses in distinct stages. Various theories posit either quantitative changes - enhancements of certain skills with age, or distinct stages with unique challenges as proposed by Freud and Erikson (Verywell Mind, n.d.; CliffsNotes, n.d.). Stability vs. Change: This debate considers whether individuals remain essentially the same throughout their lives or change significantly. While psychoanalytic theories underscore early experiences, more recent studies suggest that later experiences can also be pivotal in shaping identity (Verywell Mind, n.d.). Critical Periods: Certain theorists suggest increased susceptibility to specific developmental aspects during certain periods, such as language acquisition in early childhood (CliffsNotes, n.d.).
3 Individual Differences: Understanding the origin of personality, intelligence, and other attribute differences is a central concern, considering both genetic variances and experiential differences. Sociocultural Context: The impact of social and cultural environments on development, including family, peers, educational institutions, and the broader cultural backdrop, is crucial. Cross-Cultural Comparisons: Investigating the potential variances in developmental processes across different cultures can illuminate the universal or culture-specific aspects of development. Role of Technology: In contemporary times, the influence of technology, especially the internet and handheld devices, on child and adolescent development warrants attention. Interlinked and complex, these issues form the backbone of developmental psychology, rendering its study simultaneously demanding and intriguing.
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4 References CliffsNotes. (n.d.). Issues in Developmental Psychology. https://www.cliffsnotes.com/study- guides/psychology/developmental-psychology/issues-in-developmental-psychology Verywell Mind. (n.d.). The Major Debate of Nature vs. Nurture. https://www.verywellmind.com/nature-vs-nurture-4588829