PSYC FPX 2600 Assessment 1 Worksheet: Lifespan Development Insights

PSYC FPX 2600 Assessment 1 Worksheet: Lifespan Development Insights

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Student Name

Capella University

PSYC-FPX2600 Development Across the Lifespan

Prof. Name

Date

Section 1: Lifespan Development and Developmental Theories

Be sure to use terminology and concepts from the textbook in your responses. Cite this resource using in-text citations and add the reference to your References list at the end of the document.

Reference:
Riser, D., Spielman, R., & Biek, D. (2024). Lifespan development. OpenStax.
In-text citation: (Riser et al., 2024)

In Chapter 1, we learn about genes. In your own words, what is a gene? Think about something about you that has been affected by both your genes (what you were born with) and the way you were raised or your life experiences. How have your natural traits and the things you’ve learned from your family, friends, and surroundings helped shape this trait?

A gene is a segment of DNA that acts as a biological blueprint, guiding the development of specific traits by instructing the body on how to create proteins (Riser et al., 2024). While genes determine much of our physical and psychological makeup, environmental influences play a major role in shaping how these traits are expressed.

In my case, I have always been highly empathetic and introspective—qualities that are partly inherited from my parents. However, my upbringing and experiences have strongly influenced how these traits developed. Growing up, I was often criticized by my mother, which heightened my self-awareness and contributed to my struggles with self-esteem. Over time, I learned to channel that sensitivity into compassion and understanding toward others. This interaction between nature (genetic sensitivity) and nurture (environmental experiences) demonstrates how both factors work together to mold individual personality and emotional patterns (Riser et al., 2024).

The culture we grow up in includes how we talk, the language we speak, the food we eat, and the things we believe in and do. Think about your own culture and how it helps you see the world. How do you think researchers can make sure their work is important and respectful to different cultures? Share examples from your life where understanding other cultures helped you get along with others and learn new things.

Culture significantly shapes how we perceive, interpret, and interact with the world. It influences communication styles, beliefs, values, and social behaviors (Riser et al., 2024).

I grew up in a rural community with limited exposure to diversity. The cultural norms around me often reflected narrow-minded and prejudiced views. As I grew older, I began to connect with people from different ethnic, cultural, and religious backgrounds. Through those relationships, I learned empathy, acceptance, and the importance of inclusivity.

To ensure their work is culturally respectful and relevant, researchers should:

By engaging with people of diverse backgrounds, I’ve not only built meaningful relationships but also broadened my worldview—something that’s essential for both personal growth and professional success.

In Chapter 1, you learned about why ethics (doing what’s right) are important in research. Have you ever been in a situation where you had to think about what’s right, like keeping something secret (confidentiality), making sure people agree to something (informed consent), or not causing harm (avoiding harm)? How do you think these rules are important in research about how people grow and change over time? Share some examples to show why these rules are important.

Ethical standards in research ensure fairness, honesty, and protection of participants (Riser et al., 2024). I recall a time when a friend confided personal information in me, and I had to maintain confidentiality. This mirrors how researchers must safeguard participants’ private data.

Similarly, informed consent is vital—it ensures participants understand the purpose, methods, and potential risks of a study before agreeing to join. Lastly, the principle of avoiding harm means researchers must prevent physical or emotional distress to participants.

These ethical principles are crucial in lifespan research, where sensitive personal histories and developmental issues are often explored. Violating these principles could cause emotional harm, diminish trust, or skew research results. Respecting ethics ensures that studies on human growth remain compassionate, credible, and scientifically valid.

Section 2: Genetic, Prenatal, and Perinatal Health

Be sure to use terminology and concepts from the textbook in your responses. Cite this resource using in-text citations and add the reference to your References list at the end of the document.

Reference:
Riser, D., Spielman, R., & Biek, D. (2024). Lifespan development. OpenStax.
In-text citation: (Riser et al., 2024)

Think about how your personality and actions have been shaped by both your genes (what you were born with) and your environment (the people and places around you). For example, think about if you are outgoing or shy, or if you enjoy telling stories or doing a special hobby. Can you think of ways both your natural traits and your experiences have helped shape who you are? Share some examples from your life.

My personality is the result of a dynamic interplay between nature and nurture (Riser et al., 2024). From a genetic standpoint, I am naturally introverted and reflective—traits that made me observant and analytical. However, my environment has shaped how I use these traits. Growing up with limited encouragement, I found motivation in online learning and reading, which strengthened my curiosity and independence.

These experiences demonstrate interactionism, the concept that genetic predispositions are influenced and modified by environmental experiences. Over time, both my genetic inclination toward introspection and my environmental exposure to diverse ideas helped me grow intellectually and emotionally.

Think about a time when you saw or experienced bonding between a parent and a newborn (such as with a sibling, cousin, or yourself as a child). How did the caregiver make this bond stronger and how did it make the newborn feel safe and secure?

I experienced a profound bonding process when my granddaughter was born. From cutting her umbilical cord to being her primary caregiver during her early months, I witnessed firsthand how consistent care fosters secure attachment (Riser et al., 2024).

Through daily caregiving—feeding, soothing, and physical closeness—she developed a deep sense of trust. According to attachment theory, infants form strong emotional connections when caregivers are responsive and nurturing. My attentiveness to her needs allowed her to feel safe, which encouraged emotional stability and healthy social development.

Section 3: Paraphrasing

Be sure to use terminology and concepts from the textbook in your responses. Cite this resource using in-text citations and add the reference to your References list at the end of the document.

Reference:
Riser, D., Spielman, R., & Biek, D. (2024). Lifespan development. OpenStax.
In-text citation: (Riser et al., 2024)

Go back and look at Chapters 1 or 2. Find one idea that you think could help you at work, at school, or in your personal life. Then, write about that idea using your own words. Make sure to include an in-text citation and a full reference in APA style.

One key concept from the textbook that resonates with me is resilience, the psychological strength that enables individuals to recover from adversity and adapt to challenging situations (Riser et al., 2024). The text explains that resilience develops through supportive relationships, self-regulation, and positive coping mechanisms.

PSYC FPX 2600 Assessment 1 Worksheet: Lifespan Development Insights

In my personal and academic life, building resilience helps me navigate stressful events with greater composure. For example, when faced with academic pressures or emotional setbacks, I’ve learned to break challenges into smaller goals, seek social support, and maintain a problem-solving mindset. Practicing resilience enhances emotional well-being, improves performance, and fosters a sense of personal empowerment (Riser et al., 2024).

References

Riser, D., Spielman, R., & Biek, D. (2024). Lifespan development. OpenStax.