Human Growth and Development Life Stages

Basic Definitions Growth=measurable physical changes that occur throughout a person’s life Development=changes in intellectual, mental, emotional, social, and functional skills that occur over time Life stages=stages of growth & development from birth to death

Basic Definitions Puberty=development of the sexual organs & secondary sexual characteristics Anorexia nervosa (anorexia)=psychological disorder in which a person drastically reduces food intake or refuses to eat at all. Results in metabolic disturbances, excessive weight loss, weakness, & death if not treated Bulimia=psychological disorder in which a person alternately binges (eats excessively) & then fasts, or refuses to eat at all.

Basic Definitions Bulimarexia=psychological condition in which a person eats excessively & then uses laxatives or vomits to get rid of the food All 3 eating disorders are more common in females than males and usually occur during adolescence Chemical abuse=use of substances such as alcohol or drugs & the development of a physical and/or mental dependence on them. Frequently begins in adolescence

Basic Definitions Suicide=found in many life stages, is one of the leading causes of death in adolescents Alzheimer’s disease=progressive, irreversible disease involving memory loss, disorientation, deterioration of intellectual function, and speech and gait disturbances. Usually occurs in late adulthood Short-term memory is usually first to decline

Types of Growth & Development Physical=body growth (ht & wt changes, muscle & nerve development, & changes in body organs) Mental or Cognitive=intellectual development (how to solve problems, make judgements, & deal with situations) Emotional=feelings (dealing with love, hate, joy, fear, & excitement) Social=interactions & relationships with others

7 Life Stages Infancy: birth to 1 year Early childhood: 1-6 years Late childhood: 6-12 years Adolescence: 12-18 years Early adulthood: 19-40 years Middle adulthood: 40-65 years Late adulthood: 65 years and older

7 Life Stages Read assigned information about the 7 life stages