PSYC FPX 2600 Assessment 1 Worksheet: Lifespan Development Insights

PSYC FPX 2600 Assessment 1 Worksheet: Lifespan Development Insights

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 section: 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 specific sequence of DNA that contains the biological instructions for creating proteins, which influence how our physical traits and certain behavioral tendencies develop throughout life (Riser et al., 2024). However, these genetic codes do not work in isolation. The interaction between our genetic makeup (nature) and our environmental experiences (nurture) shapes who we become.

For instance, I have always been introspective and somewhat reserved—a personality trait that may be partially inherited. However, my upbringing also played a crucial role in how this trait evolved. Growing up in an environment that emphasized emotional control and self-reflection strengthened my natural inclination toward thoughtfulness. My family’s communication style, along with supportive friendships, encouraged me to express myself more openly over time. This balance between innate sensitivity and learned emotional expression demonstrates how both genetics and life experiences collaboratively mold personality traits (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 profoundly shapes how we perceive the world and interact with others. It influences our traditions, communication styles, and values (Riser et al., 2024). I grew up in a small, close-knit rural community where people shared similar beliefs and lifestyles. While that environment provided stability, it also limited exposure to diverse viewpoints. As I grew older and met people from different cultural backgrounds, I learned how cultural awareness enhances empathy and communication.

Researchers must ensure cultural respect by designing studies that are inclusive and sensitive to varying cultural norms. They should collaborate with individuals from diverse communities to avoid bias and misrepresentation.

Ways Researchers Can Promote Cultural Respect	Examples from Personal Experience
Use inclusive language in study materials	Learning inclusive communication through multicultural friendships
Collaborate with cultural representatives	Engaging in interfaith community events
Avoid ethnocentric assumptions in analysis	Challenging stereotypes learned during childhood
Recognize and honor cultural traditions	Celebrating cultural festivals with friends of diverse backgrounds

Understanding other cultures has personally helped me communicate more effectively and appreciate perspectives that differ from my own. It has also expanded my worldview and improved my ability to work collaboratively with others in school and professional settings.

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 behavior in research ensures participants are protected from harm and treated with integrity (Riser et al., 2024). In my personal life, I’ve had moments where confidentiality was vital—such as when a friend trusted me with private information. Upholding their privacy mirrors the ethical principle of confidentiality in research.

Similarly, informed consent is crucial because it ensures that participants understand the purpose, risks, and benefits of a study before agreeing to take part. Lastly, avoiding harm—both psychological and physical—is a cornerstone of ethical research practice.

These principles are essential in developmental studies where participants often share deeply personal stories. If their trust is violated, it could cause emotional distress or even influence their behavior negatively. By maintaining ethical standards, researchers not only protect participants but also ensure that their findings are valid, credible, and beneficial to society.

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 section: 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 a reflection of both my genetic predispositions and environmental influences—a clear example of the nature and nurture interaction described in the textbook (Riser et al., 2024). Naturally, I tend to be reflective and calm, which may stem from inherited temperamental traits. However, my experiences have further refined these qualities.

Growing up in a family that valued education and personal growth inspired me to pursue lifelong learning. Online educational platforms and diverse social networks have provided environments where I could thrive intellectually. The combination of my curiosity (nature) and exposure to supportive learning environments (nurture) has helped shape me into a confident and self-motivated learner.

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?

One of the most profound experiences I’ve had was bonding with my granddaughter from the moment she was born. I was present at her birth, held her first, and have been deeply involved in her care since then. This consistent presence helped establish a strong secure attachment, as described by attachment theory (Riser et al., 2024).

Through constant physical touch, soothing communication, and immediate responsiveness to her needs, the bond between us has flourished. She exhibits signs of security—calmness, trust, and emotional regulation—because she knows her caregiver is reliable and nurturing. This type of sensitive caregiving fosters emotional development and contributes to the child’s long-term well-being (Riser et al., 2024).

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 section: 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.

An essential concept from the textbook that can enhance both my personal and professional life is resilience, defined as the ability to adapt positively in the face of stress or adversity (Riser et al., 2024). The text emphasizes that resilience is not purely innate but can be cultivated through problem-solving, self-reflection, and social support.

In my daily life, I can strengthen resilience by developing coping strategies, setting realistic goals, and seeking guidance when necessary. For instance, when facing a demanding academic task, I can divide it into smaller, manageable sections, rely on supportive peers or mentors, and remind myself of past achievements to maintain motivation. Practicing resilience allows individuals to remain composed under pressure and fosters a mindset of growth rather than defeat (Riser et al., 2024).

References

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

PSYC FPX 2600 Assessment 1 Worksheet: Lifespan Development Insights

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