What This Document Is
This document presents lecture notes from the first module of Arizona State University’s Developmental Psychology (PSY 341) course, specifically focusing on prenatal and perinatal development. It introduces foundational concepts related to how humans develop from conception through birth, and briefly touches upon early theories of knowledge acquisition. The notes are dated January 10, 2017.
Why This Document Matters
These notes are essential for students enrolled in PSY 341, providing a foundational overview of the earliest stages of human development. They are most valuable at the *start* of the module, serving as a roadmap for subsequent lectures and readings. Understanding prenatal development is crucial for anyone interested in psychology, biology, or related fields, as these early stages significantly influence later life outcomes.
Common Limitations or Challenges
This document is a *preview* of the module’s content. It does not provide a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of prenatal and perinatal development. It also introduces a historical perspective on theories of knowledge, which is not the primary focus of the module. It’s important to remember this is a lecture *note* – it’s designed to accompany, not replace, textbook readings and further study.
What This Document Provides
This preview includes:
* An overview of Matthew Perry’s theories of knowledge development (Dualism, Multiplicity, and Relativism).
* Required readings for Module 1 (Chapter 2, pp. 39-83 and Chapter 12, pp. 470-482).
* Key facts about brain development during prenatal stages, including the number of neurons and their interconnectedness.
* A breakdown of the three stages of prenatal development: zygote, embryo, and fetus, with timelines.
* A discussion of potential complications during each stage and the concept of teratogens.
* An introduction to the medical model of developmental disabilities and early challenges to this model.
This preview *does not* include detailed explanations of specific developmental disabilities, in-depth analysis of teratogen effects, or a complete discussion of alternative theories to the medical model. It also does not contain any information beyond the content presented in these initial lecture notes.
