8 Periods of Human Development – ​​Psychology

“The field of human development focuses on the scientific study of the systematic processes of change and stability that occur in people” (Papalia, p. 36).

Hello friends!

There is a large area of ​​study called human development, in which the object of study is the process of change that occurs throughout the life cycle; changes in physical, cognitive and psychosocial development. Psychology is one of the sciences present in this area of ​​study, an area from the beginning interdisciplinary, that is, that brings together knowledge from medicine, anthropology, sociology, biology, genetics, education, history.

In this text, we will describe the 8 typical stages or phases of development. Although we can demarcate such phases by ages, it is somewhat arbitrary. In other words, the demarcation of ages aims to facilitate the study. Thus, for example, it is evident that there is a passage from intrauterine life (phase 1) to early childhood (phase 2), as it is usually possible to demarcate the beginning of adolescence (phase 5) by the transformations of puberty. Other phases, such as intermediate adult life (phase 7) do not have such a clear demarcation.

In this way, we understand the 8 phases, stages or periods as an arbitrary criterion, but necessary in didactic terms.

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1) Prenatal Period

It is common to think that life begins with birth. However, the nine months (on average) that precede it are responsible for a complex intrauterine development. Genetic characteristics are already beginning to interact with the environment in which the baby is found. The mother’s diet directly affects growth and the baby begins to respond to the mother’s voice, to distinguish her from the others, and to have a preference for her.

2) Early Childhood Period

Early childhood begins at birth and lasts until age 3. In the first few months, the five senses begin to develop. In the cognitive part, “the abilities to learn and remember are present even in the first weeks. The use of symbols and the ability to solve problems develop around the end of the second year of life. (Papalia, p. 40).

During this period, the child begins to form strong bonds with parents or caregivers. There is the beginning of self-awareness (self-awareness) and interest in other children.

3) Second Childhood Period

According to developmentalists, developmental scientists, second childhood lasts from 3 to 6 years of age. The body tends to become more slender and body parts begin to resemble, in terms of proportions, those of an adult. Appetite tends to decrease and sleep disorders such as insomnia may appear.

“Thinking is somewhat self-centered, but it increases understanding of others’ points of view. Cognitive immaturity results in some illogical ideas about the world. Gender identity develops” (Papalia, p. 40). It is curious that we normally think that the brain is growing, that the cortex, the gray matter, is expanding, which is why a child would have less logical or abstract thoughts than an adult. However, as we know from the neurosciences, “the gray matter decreases in an inverse wave as the brain matures and neural connections are deactivated”, that is, with time there is a loss in the density of the gray matter, which paradoxically generates , greater maturity, more efficient functioning.

4) Third Childhood Period

At this stage, there is a decrease in physical growth. There is a tendency for respiratory problems to appear, however, it is one of the phases in which, on average, the presence of greater health is noted. Between the ages of 6 and 11, there is a decrease in egocentrism, that is, the child is no longer so self-centered. Schooling helps in this process and also in stimulating memory and language (which improve regardless of school).

Certain children may have special education needs or, at the opposite extreme, talents that require care as well. The concept of oneself (self-concept) becomes more complex, which can also generate changes in self-esteem. Coexistence with peers close in age is a factor to be taken into account during this period.

5) Period of Adolescence

As we have seen, the division of life into stages is arbitrary. The concept of adolescence is recent. According to the etymological dictionary: “The word “adolescent” comes from the present participle of the Latin verb adolescere, to grow. Already the past participle, adultus gave rise to the word “adult”. In Portuguese, the words would be equivalent to “crescent” and “crescido”, respectively”.

Many cultures do not have this idea that we have of adolescence, as a period between childhood and adulthood.

As we know, reproductive maturity occurs at this stage, when it becomes possible for individuals to be fathers or mothers. Health is usually affected by behavior such as eating disorders or drug use.

In cognition, “the ability to think in abstract terms and to use scientific reasoning develops. Immature thinking persists in some attitudes and behaviors. The search for identity, including sexual identity, becomes central” (Papalia, p. 41).

6) Early Adult Life Period

Developmental scientists demarcate the onset of adulthood from the age of 20 to the age of 40. “Physical condition peaks, then declines slightly. Moral thinking and judgments become more complex. Educational and vocational choices are made after an exploratory period. Personality traits and styles become relatively stable, but personality changes can be influenced by life stages and events. Decisions are made about intimate relationships and personal lifestyles, but they may not last. Most people get married and have children” (Papalia, p. 41).

Here we see that the previous phase, adolescence, can be prolonged, even if there is a certain intersection of phases. After all, it is not possible to demarcate precisely when adulthood begins. Some argue that this begins with the first job and self-support, others with the start of college or with the constitution of a new family.

7) Intermediate Adult Life Period

This phase goes from 40 to 65 years of age. There are significant changes in physical conditions (health, vigor), however, with great differences from one person to another. “Women go through menopause. Mental capacities are at their peak, specialization and practical problem-solving skills are enhanced. Creative output may decline, but better in quality. For some, career success and financial success peak, for others, burnout or a career change may occur. Dual responsibility for caring for children and aging parents can be stressful. The departure of the children leaves the nest empty” (Papalia, p. 41).

8) Period of Late Adult Life

This period starts from the age of 65. “The majority of people are healthy and active, although generally there is a decline in health and physical abilities. The slower reaction time affects some functional aspects. Most people are mentally alert. Although intelligence and memory can deteriorate in some areas, most people find ways to compensate. Retirement can offer new options for enjoying time. People develop more flexible strategies to face personal loss and imminent death. Relationships with family and close friends can provide important support. The search for meaning in life assumes fundamental importance” (Papalia, p. 41).

Conclusion

In this text, we have given an overview of the 8 stages of human development. Want to learn in more detail? Sign up for our Developmental Psychology Course!

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