Discussion Prompt I: Life Span Psychology
The concept of "life span" development is relatively new. For many years, "child" psychology was studied, but it was understood that by the beginning of early adulthood most, if not all, of one's important development had occurred. In other words, the idea was that the important changes that come with age were completed by the end of adolescence. Why do you believe that psychologists now study the whole life span? What impact does realizing that important developments occur throughout our whole lives have on the field of psychology and our lives in general? Next, describe the scientific methodology and typical research designs used in lifespan psychology (refer to your text, ch 1). Which methodology and research design do you think produces the best results in the study of lifespan development? Why?
Discussion Prompt II: Generation Labels and the Nature Nurture Debate
Cross-sectional developmental research has discovered that various generations have been labeled by popular culture to describe trends in behavior commonly seen among individuals born to each generation. Study the chart below, and discuss whether or not you agree with the labels given and the rationales provided. Explain your answers.
Next, given the knowledge you have gained in this section about the influence of nature and nurture (biological and contextual influences), are there other reasons besides those listed in the chart that could influence general trends in behavior across generations? Support your reasoning with information from the text and other course materials.
The response must include a reference list. One-inch margins, double-space, Using Times New Roman 12 pnt font and APA style of writing and citations.