Ellie Deifel

Psych 1100

4/26/23

Signature Assignment

The lifespan perspective is an approach that emphasizes the importance of studying human

development across the entire lifespan, from infancy to old age. This perspective recognizes that

development is a lifelong process that is constantly being influenced by a wide range of factors.

It also acknowledges that development is not a linear process. An individual's development is

constantly in flux as different variables may affect their development. The lifespan perspective

draws on insights from areas such as biology, psychology, sociology, and anthropology to better

understand human development. It acknowledges that human development is not a one size fits

all process, but rather one that is individual.

Studying lifespan development is important for a handful of reasons. First, it helps us to better

understand how people change and grow over time. It acknowledges how different experiences

and environments can impact one's development. This can be helpful in informing others about

the best way to prevent problems such as mental illness, addiction, and social isolation. In

addition, studying lifespan development can help us to gain a deeper appreciation for the

diversity of human experience. Creating a way to better understand human behavior in various

stages of development. We can identify patterns and trends that can help us to predict and

prevent future problems.

The first and foremost stage in human development is the prenatal stage. This fascinating and

complex stage is the period that begins at conception and ends at birth. During this time, the
developing organism undergoes rapid and complex changes that are all extremely critical. This is

when all major organ systems and body structures are being developed. The prenatal stage is

divided into three main periods. These being the germinal period, the embryonic period, and the

fetal period. Each of these periods are essential and unique to healthy growth and development of

the organism.

The germinal period is the first stage of prenatal development, this goes from conception until

the second week of gestation. During this time the fertilized egg implants itself to the lining of

the uterus. Dividing rapidly, the cells eventually develop into the embryo and form a placenta as

well. The placenta being a vital organ that connects the embryo to the mother's blood supply.

This allows for an exchange of nutrients, oxygen, and waste products between the two. Next, the

embryonic period which occurs from the second week of gestation to the eighth week. This is the

period where the organism develops its major organ systems. This is a critical time as any

exposure to substances can cause long lasting effects to the developing fetus. By the end the

embryo has developed all its major organs and body structures.

The third and final stage of prenatal development is the fetal stage. This takes place from the

ninth week up until birth as it is now called a fetus and is developing for life outside the womb.

The fetal period is known for the rapid growth of the fetus as it gains weight and begins to move,

breathe, and respond to stimulations. Organ systems have developed and are more complex now,

such as the circulatory systems, the respiratory systems, and the nervous systems. While also

keeping a healthy lifestyle is still important as substances can still have serious effects on the

fetus still developing. Some effects listed in the textbook were low birth weight, premature birth,

anoxia and hypoxia.

As a woman, learning about prenatal development has been incredibly significant in helping me

understand the complex process of creating life. Learning about the intricate ways in which the

major organ systems develop and mature. It has given me a newfound respect and understanding

for the human body and all that it is capable of. In addition, learning about proper prenatal care

has helped me to understand the importance of a healthy lifestyle during pregnancy. As someone

who is hopeful of starting a family one day, not much is taught on this part of a child's

development. Exposure to certain things during this time can cause many long-lasting effects to

the child. Overall, learning about prenatal development has given me an appreciation for the

beauty and complexity of the human body.

Learning about the prenatal development stages can benefit others in many ways. First, it can

help parents to understand the complexity of the human body and create life. Parents can then

gain a deeper appreciation for the incredible changes that are taking place within their bodies and

with developing a fetus. It can also help parents make informed decisions about their health and

the health of their unborn child, it is important to understand the risks associated with exposure

to certain substances during pregnancy and the effects it might have. This promotes good health

for the mother and the child, reducing the risk of complications during both pregnancy and

childbirth. Overall, learning about this fascinating stage of development can help parents feel

connected, help make informed decisions, and promote health for both the mother and the child.

Sources:

Birthweight and Gestation. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2016). Retrieved from

https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/birthweight.htm ↵
Encyclopedia Britannica, inc. (n.d.). Prenatal development. Encyclopedia Britannica. Retrieved

April 26, 2023, from https://www.britannica.com/science/prenatal-development

Fetal development: Week-by-week stages of pregnancy. Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Retrieved April

26, 2023, from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/7247-fetal-development-stages-of-

growth