Development Lifespan Essay

718 Words3 Pages
The study of lifespan development was drawn out of Darwin’s want to understand evolution. Lifespan is the period of time from conception extending to death. This paper will define the development of humans throughout the lifespan and describe the characteristics of the lifespan perspective. Human development domains and periods will be identified and contemporary concerns as related to lifespan development will be identified. Lifespan development is a process beginning at conception that continues until death. The progression begins with the fetus. As the unborn child enters the world the environment in which the child is brought into has a huge influence on the child’s development (WGBH Educational Foundation, 2001). Lifespan development can be defined as a methodical, intra-individual change associated with progressions corresponding to age. The development progresses in a manner showing the level of functioning. According to Levinson the life cycle consists of four 25 year eras. The main developmental periods are child and adolescence, early adulthood, middle adulthood and late adulthood. Each era’s transition involves a change in the individual’s life and sometimes takes up to six years to complete the change (Smith, 2009). The study of human development began with Darwin and other evolutionists. Darwin thought if he studied human development he could further prove his theory of evolution (Boyd & Bee, 2006). The lifespan perspective says that several important changes take place throughout development. This lifelong process consists of a development of humans that is multidimensional, multi-directional, plastic, multidisciplinary, and contextual. The development involves growth, maintenance and regulation. Changes that occur should bethought of in a manner that considers the culture and context of these occurrences. Through this perspective comprehension
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