PSYC 4070 Chapter : Chapter 11 Middle Childhood Biosocial Development
Document Summary
Middle childhood the period between early childhood and early adolescence, approximately from ages 6 to 11. Genes that protect species survival mean that most fatal diseases and accidents occur before age 6 and after age11. Contemporary schoolchildren have two added protections: education about risks and several doses of vaccines. These factors mean that middle childhood is the healthiest period of the life span. Self care is easy, children depend less on their families and do not yet need to cope with the body changes and impulses of adolescence. Immunization has reduced deaths dramatically, and serious accidents, fatal illnesses, and even minor diseases are less common than they were a few decades ago. Oral health is a good example of improvements. In developed nations, most school-age children brush their teeth; most communities add fluoride to drinking water; and 75% of u. s. 6- to 11- year olds have no untreated cavities. School-age children are influenced by peers and many adults.
