HSC M2 Human growth and development

HSC M2 Human growth and development Arba Dreni D1-1.1: outline the life stages of human growth and development. Life stages are the different phases of life that all individuals go through. These are infancy, childhood, adolescence and adulthood. Each stage is divided into smaller ones, for example early childhood and late childhood. These stages are not fixed and can vary from culture to culture. Infancy- infancy is from birth to two years. During this time the baby grows and develops a lot, using its senses to learn about the world. Infants cry to communicate their needs and parents soon learn the difference between cries and hunger and cries of boredom. Childhood- early childhood from 3-5 years is a period of intense cognitive development as the child learns to understand language and speak instead of crying to communicate needs. This is when children start to learn to read. Between the ages of three to five, they strive for independence and often express emotions in response to this, which reduces as they develop social skills. Late childhood from 6-10 years is where children consolidate their skills. Socially, they play more team games and rules become important. Children of seven or eight often say ‘it’s not fair’ if someone breaks the rules. Adolescence – adolescence 11-17 years is a time of physical and emotional upheaval, as the body produces hormones that change height. Weight, and body shape. Physically, secondary sex characteristics develop. Breast enlarge in girls. Boys develop facial hair and their voice deepens. They may be insecure and awkward. Early, middle, late adulthood- in early adulthood 18-29 years social relationships and careers are established. Early childhood is the mark of fully-fledged independence and many life events may occur, for example moving out. Middle adulthood 30-60 years is a period of consolidation. Relationships may break down, careers change, family responsibilities may increase as children grow as ageing older relatives require more support. Late adulthood 60 years and older is increasingly a time for providing support, perhaps babysitting grandchildren during school holidays, or caring for an ageing partner. D2-1.2: outline social, emotional, cognitive and physical development within one life stage. Social development- Relationships: are the means by which we develop socially. Children who are kept in isolation have difficulty developing social relationships; if no one speaks to them they may not learn to speak. For example, Andrew was locked in a room for 12 years by his abusive parents. When found, he couldn’t speak only after professional support, learned how to communicate in a limited way. Emotional development- Self-image is the perception a person has of themselves. This usually comes from their own personal experiences or by internalising and accepting the