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HomeHomework HelppsychologyCritical Period

Critical Period

A critical period is a specific time frame during development when an organism is particularly sensitive to certain environmental stimuli and experiences, which are essential for proper growth and the acquisition of particular skills or functions. If these experiences do not occur during this window, it may be difficult or impossible for the organism to develop those skills later.

intermediate
2 hours
Psychology
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Overview

Critical periods are essential windows in development when individuals are particularly receptive to learning specific skills or information. These periods are crucial for language acquisition, social skills, and other developmental milestones. Understanding critical periods helps educators and psyc...

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Key Terms

Critical Period
A time frame in development when an organism is especially receptive to certain stimuli.

Example: The critical period for language acquisition occurs in early childhood.

Sensitive Period
A time frame when an organism is more responsive to certain stimuli, but not exclusively limited to that time.

Example: Children are in a sensitive period for social learning during preschool years.

Neuroplasticity
The brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections.

Example: Neuroplasticity allows recovery from brain injuries.

Developmental Psychology
The study of how and why human beings change over the course of their life.

Example: Developmental psychology examines cognitive and emotional growth.

Language Acquisition
The process by which humans learn to communicate using language.

Example: Children typically acquire their first language by age three.

Cognitive Development
The progression of thinking and understanding as a person matures.

Example: Cognitive development theories explain how children learn to think logically.

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Key Concepts

sensitive periodslanguage acquisitionneuroplasticitydevelopmental psychology