Chapter 1 An Introduction to Lifespan Development 11
Although social norms, holidays,
and languages vary among cultures, the
physical, cognitive, and socio-emotional
development of the people within each
culture is fundamentally universal. For
example, the official language of Jordan
is Arabic and the official language
of Brazil is Portuguese. Even though
the languages in each country are
different, the cognitive development
of people in Jordan is not drastically
different from people in Brazil. In both
countries, children still learn their native
languages in similar ways, are able to
pronounce their first words at about the
same time, and learn to speak in the
same age group. Similar to the cognitive
development of children, the physical
and socio-emotional development of
Jordanian and Brazilian children are not
country-specific. Children will physically
progress in about the same way and
similarly experience social situations.
Although cultural customs differ from one
country to another, the types of human
development are transnational.
Writing Activity
Rent two short foreign films from the
library featuring young children or teens.
While watching each film, notice how the
characters are similar to the characters in
the other film. In what ways do they differ?
Write a journal entry comparing your life
experiences with the characters from the
films.
Cultural Connections
Universal Development Universal Development
Althoug Al th
C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C C
Yuri Arcurs/Shutterstock.com
1-6
Most people experience growth spurts
during adolescence.
changes that occur from birth through ado-
lescence are enormous. A growth spurt might
occur over a few months or a year, but for
the most part, these changes are gradual.
You may not notice growth from month to
month unless someone tells you. Perhaps
you experienced a growth spurt in late child-
hood or early adolescence, 1-6. You probably
did not feel yourself growing, but shortening
pants legs and remarks of others are simple
reminders.
Likewise, your brain development and
cognitive changes are astounding. These
changes also occur over time. Perhaps you
did not notice your changing reading abilities
until the books seemed simplistic and imma-
ture. Over time, you can see how friendships
change, too.
Human Development Is Interrelated
As children learn to walk, they also learn
to say a few words. At the same time, fine-
motor skills develop and they begin to feed
themselves. Children explore their world with
a curious mind. They remain tied to their care-
givers, sensing anxiety when the caregiver is
out of sight.