Continuous Process Vs. Development In Stages & Universal Vs Context-Specific Perspectives On Development

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      Discontinuity Perspective: This perspective focuses on distinct stages of development, with qualitative leaps in abilities occurring at specific points.

• Example (p. 143): Jean Piaget's theory of cognitive development. Piaget proposed stages like the sensorimotor stage (birth to 2 years) and the preoperational stage (2-7 years), where children exhibit distinct ways of thinking at each stage.

Universal vs. Context-Specific Development (pp. 150-151) Universal Perspective: This view argues that certain developmental milestones are universal and occur in a similar sequence across cultures. Biological factors and maturation play a key role.

• Example (p. 150): Gross motor development. All typically developing children will progress through stages like rolling, crawling, and walking, regardless of cultural background.

Context-Specific Perspective: This perspective highlights how cultural and environmental factors influence development. Social interactions, child-rearing practices, and available resources all play a role.

• Example (p. 151): Achievement motivation. Cultures that emphasize academic achievement may lead to students developing stronger motivation to excel in school compared to cultures that place less emphasis on formal education.

 

Sample Solution

     

Continuity Perspective:

This view emphasizes the gradual, qualitative changes that occur throughout the lifespan. People build upon existing skills and knowledge, with development being a steady, cumulative process.

• Example (p. 142): Vocabulary development in children. A child starts by babbling, then progresses to simple words, and gradually builds a more complex vocabulary over time.