Human development is typically examined across three main domains: physical, cognitive, and socio-emotional. These domains represent the significant areas of change and continuity throughout the lifespan, from infancy to late adulthood.

Physical Development

Physical processes, also known as maturation, encompass the biological changes that occur across an individual's life. These changes begin with genetic inheritance and continue through various stages, including growth in height and weight, development of motor skills, and the complex hormonal changes of puberty and menopause. Brain development, which influences motor and cognitive abilities, is also crucial to physical development.

Cognitive Development

Cognitive processes involve the evolution of thinking, intelligence, problem-solving, and language. It refers to various skills, such as learning to read, engaging in problem-solving, and mastering calculus. From infancy, when children start to recognize familiar faces and objects, to adulthood, where tasks such as abstract reasoning and memory become crucial, cognitive development highlights the progression of intellectual abilities. For example, a child forming a sentence about a future event or an adult memorizing a new address demonstrates cognitive development. These abilities expand and become more complex, shaping how individuals interpret and interact with the world.

Socio-emotional Development

Socio-emotional processes include changes in relationships, emotional experiences, and personality. These developments shape how individuals engage with others and regulate their emotions. Infants smiling at their caregivers, adolescents forming friendships, and adults navigating intimate relationships are all expressions of socio-emotional development. These processes are crucial in building social connections and emotional resilience.

Life Stages

Human development can be divided into three key life stages: childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. Childhood spans from birth to around age 10. Adolescence, starting around ages 10 to 12, signals the transition to adulthood. Adulthood is further divided into early (20s and 30s), middle (40s to mid-60s), and late adulthood (mid-60s and beyond), with each stage marked by its unique developmental challenges and milestones.