Portage PSYC 140 module 1 Exam
2026
The 4 features of lifespan development
1. lifelong
2. multidirectional
3. multidisciplinary
4. multidimensional
Define multidirectional
Change doesn't consist of only getting better or only getting worse — it can consist of
improvement or decline or both things happening at the same time.
Define multidisciplinary
Lifespan development is relevant to many fields, and research in one area can influence and
benefit other disciplines and researchers.
Define lifelong
Change happens throughout the entirety of human life, and all age groups are important to
learn about.
Define multidimensional
There are many ways in which someone can change, including socioemotional, cognitive, and
biological
Aging vs. maturation
Aging: The process of becoming old. It starts in young adulthood. Not the same as growth —
kids grow, adults age.
Maturation: Becoming more advanced and developed. Brains and bodies mature, thinking and
emotion regulation becomes more mature.
Nature vs. nurture
Nature: genetic, biological
Nurture: learned, influenced by others, environmental
PSYC 140