PSYC 1 Lecture Notes - Lecture 7: Preterm Birth, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, Birth Weight
Document Summary
Developmental psychology: the scientific study of how human thought and behavior changes throughout the lifespan. Fertilized cell begins rapid and repeated cell divison. Cells begin to differentiate into specialized locations and structures. Embryo (sex is determined y chromosome does or does not activate) 9 weeks: fingerprints are evident, fingers & toes moving. 25 weeks: eyes will close for sleep & open during periods of wakefulness. Babies prefer their mother"s voice, they prefer the language they hear in the womb. Teratogens: external substances such as viruses and chemicals that can damage the developing embryo or fetus. Fetal alcohol syndrome (fas): mental retardation, attentional and perceptual deficits, irritability and impulsivity. Foods fish high in mercury, deli meat, certain cheeses (soft), caffeine, unwashed vegetables. Reflexes: don"t really know why we have these reflexes (maybe priming effect) Babinski: curls toes when outer edge of sole of foot is stroked. Startle: sudden noise triggers fanning of fingers, arms fling out.
