Motor Development Theories and Influences

The video provides an overview of developmental theories of motor development, starting from the 1930s. It discusses the nature vs. nurture debate, highlighting Arnold Gesell's neural maturationist theory and Skinner's cognitive theory. Myrtle McGraw's twin study is examined, showing the influence of environment on motor development. Bernstein's task-specific theory and Esther Thelen's dynamical systems theory are also explored, emphasizing the complex interaction between brain, body, and environment in motor development.

What was the primary focus of Arnold Gesell's neural maturationist theory?

• The task-specific nature of motor skills

• The role of environment in motor development

• The pre-programmed nature of brain development

• The influence of reinforcement on behavior

According to Skinner's cognitive theory, what primarily influences motor development?

• Hierarchical motor milestones

• Pre-programmed brain functions

• Environmental factors and learning

• Genetic predispositions

Which theory emphasizes the role of reinforcement in motor behavior?

• Cognitive theory

• Neural maturationist theory

• Task-specific theory

• Dynamical systems theory

What was the main finding of Myrtle McGraw's study on twins Jimmy and Johnny?

• Environment had no impact on motor milestones

• Genetics solely determined motor development

• Environment influenced later strength and agility

• Motor milestones were achieved at different times

What did Myrtle McGraw's study suggest about the role of environment in early motor milestones?

• Environment had a significant impact

• Environment had no impact

• Environment delayed motor milestones

• Environment accelerated motor milestones

How did Bernstein view motor development differently from previous theories?

• As a linear and hierarchical process

• As a function-specific rather than muscle-specific process

• As solely driven by the central nervous system

• As unaffected by environmental factors

What aspect of motor development did Bernstein challenge?

• The influence of environment

• The muscle-specific nature of development

• The hierarchical nature of development

• The role of genetics

What does the dynamical systems theory propose about motor development?

• It is a complex interaction between brain, body, and environment

• It is unaffected by task-specific requirements

• It is solely influenced by genetic factors

• It follows a predictable linear pattern

According to dynamical systems theory, what factors influence walking development?

• Only central nervous system commands

• A combination of biomechanics, environment, and motivation

• Only environmental factors

• Only genetic factors

What is a key takeaway from the dynamical systems theory regarding motor development?

• It involves a complex interaction of multiple factors

• It is solely environment-driven

• It is solely brain-driven

• It is predetermined by genetics