A Developmental Psychobiological Approach to Human Development

Abstract

Individuals inherit not just genes from the parents but also an epigenetic pattern, an ecological (social, biological, and physical) niche, and perceptual and behavioral biases (e.g., culture), all of which can provide experiences necessary for the formation of nascent systems upon which subsequent learning and development depend. Some models of development are evaluated and the developmental psychobiology model is presented as the best way of elucidating how certain early experiences can shape nascent systems that will contribute to the development of a wide range of social, emotional, and cognitive abilities in humans. An example from handedness development is used to illustrate the model.