PSYC 1010 Lecture Notes - Lecture 5: Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, Preterm Birth, Birth Weight

• School: York University
• Department: Psychology
• Course: PSYC 1010
• Professor: Myriam Mongrain

Document Summary

Development: sequence of age-related changes that occur as a person progresses from conception to death. Conception: 300 milli sperms competing for 1 egg, 23 chromosomes of egg and sperm unite, woman: xx, male: yx. Prenatal period: conception to birth divided into 3 phases: zygote stage. Period of great vulnerability because all of the basic structures are being formed. Birth defects are due to problems that occur during this stage: fetus stage. Muscles & bones form capable of physical movements sex organs develop can smile and frown. 22-26 (cid:449)eeks" age of viability: age at which a baby can survive in the event of a premature birth. Teratogens: external agents e. g. drugs or viruses that can harm the embryo or fetus. Risk of spontaneous abortions and fatal death. Higher risk of death in 1st year. 3rd leading cause of mental retardation: symptoms like thin upper lip, short nose, small eye openings, low nasal bridge. Reduced fetal blood flow; less nutrients, oxygen.