Psychology n Counseling

Front

What are the three stages of prenatal development?

Back

The three stages are the germinal stage, embryonic stage, and fetal stage. The germinal stage lasts from conception to about 2 weeks and involves cell division and implantation in the uterus. The embryonic stage spans from 2 weeks to 2 months and is when most major organs and body systems begin to form. The fetal stage lasts from 2 months until birth, during which the fetus grows rapidly and organs mature.

Front

Why is the embryonic stage considered a critical period?

Back

The embryonic stage is critical because it is when the basic structures of the brain, spinal cord, heart, and other vital organs develop. Any exposure to harmful substances, infections, or nutritional deficiencies during this time can cause major birth defects or even miscarriage.

Front

How does maternal stress affect prenatal development?

Back

High levels of maternal stress can increase hormones like cortisol, which can cross the placenta and affect the fetus. This can result in premature birth, low birth weight, and long-term issues such as increased risk of anxiety, attention problems, and learning difficulties in the child.

Front

What is fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS)?

Back

Fetal alcohol syndrome is a serious condition caused by excessive alcohol consumption during pregnancy. It leads to physical abnormalities such as facial deformities, growth problems, and brain damage, as well as cognitive and behavioral issues like learning disabilities and poor impulse control.

Front

What is maturation in motor development?

Back

Maturation refers to the genetically programmed physical changes that unfold with age, allowing motor skills to develop naturally. While experience and environment play a role, maturation sets the basic timeline for skills such as crawling, walking, and running.

Front

Define attachment and name two psychologists associated with its study.

Back

Attachment is the strong emotional bond that develops between an infant and their primary caregiver. It ensures the child feels safe and secure. Harry Harlow studied attachment in monkeys, showing the importance of comfort and care, while John Bowlby emphasized the biological basis of attachment in humans.

Front

What is telegraphic speech?

Back

Telegraphic speech is a stage in language development, usually around age two, where toddlers combine words into short phrases that contain only essential content words, like “want toy” or “go park,” leaving out articles and other less critical words.

Front

According to Erikson, what is the main psychosocial crisis during adolescence?

Back

The main crisis during adolescence, according to Erikson, is identity versus role confusion. During this stage, teens explore different roles and values to develop a sense of personal identity. Failure to do so can lead to confusion about who they are and where they fit in society.

Front

What is Piaget’s conservation concept?

Back

Conservation refers to a child’s understanding that the quantity of a substance remains the same even when its shape or appearance changes. For example, water poured into a tall glass from a short one still has the same amount, even though it looks different.

Front

What is Vygotsky’s idea of private speech?

Back

Vygotsky believed that private speech—when children talk to themselves while playing or solving problems—helps them plan actions and regulate behavior. This self-talk eventually becomes internalized as inner speech and supports cognitive development.