Big Questions in Development
This debate asks whether development is influenced more by genes or by experience.
Nature v. nurture
Observing children at a park without interfering is this type of data collection
Naturalistic observation
This part of Freud’s personality operates on the reality principle
Ego
The observable traits resulting from genes and environment are called this.
Phenotype
This structure controls the endocrine system and the four F
Hypothalamus
This perspective recognizes that children vary in how strongly they respond to environmental influences.
Differential susceptibility
A study measuring depression rates at one point in time uses this design
Cross-sectional
This theorist explained the “Terrible Twos” as autonomy vs. shame and doubt
Erikson
A trait influenced by multiple genes is described as this
Polygenic inheritence
This developmental process insulates neural pathways and increases speed.
Myelination
This mistaken belief assumes that deviation from a norm is automatically inferior.
Difference equals deficit error
Bandura’s Bobo Doll study used this research design
Experimental
This theoretical approach focuses only on observable behavior
Behaviorism
A single gene influencing multiple traits is an example of this
Pleiotropy
This hormone-related developmental event begins around ages 5–8 in girls and 7–11 in boys.
Adrenarche
The Genie case best demonstrates this developmental concept
Critical v. sensitive periods
This design involves random assignment and control of the independent variable
Experimental
According to Freud, fixation at this stage explains adult homosexuality
Phallic
Your phenotype may or may not reveal your _____.
Genotype
SSRIs work by blocking this process
Serotonin reuptake
This distinction asks whether development happens gradually or in stages.
Continuity v. discontinuity
This type of study lacks random assignment but compares pre-existing groups (e.g., boys vs. girls).
Quasi-experimental
This approach combines insights from multiple theories rather than committing to one
Ecclectic
If both parents are homozygous dominant for widow’s peak, the chance of a straight hairline is:
0%
Gray matter volume peaks around this age in girls
11