Describe the main features of a life-span perspective on development.
Solution
The main features of a life-span perspective on development are as follows:
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Development is a lifelong process that takes place across all age groups starting from conception to old age. It also includes the interaction between gains and losses, which is dynamic.
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The biological, cognitive, and socio-emotional processes of human development are interwoven in the development of a person throughout the life-span.
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Development is multi-directional as some dimensions or components of a given dimension of development may increase, while others show a decrease.
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Development is highly plastic since modifiability is found in psychological development within persons, though flexibility varies among individuals.
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Development is influenced by historical conditions.
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A number of disciplines like psychology, anthropology, sociology, and neuro-sciences are concerned with development.
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The response and actions of individuals are related to contexts, which include the inherited traits, the physical environment, and social, historical, and cultural contexts. These contexts vary among individuals.
