Question

Define critical period. Provide an example of a critical period for each of the three domains (physical, psychosocial, cognitive) of development.

Answer 1

Using a developmental lens, critical period can be defines as a maturational stage in the lifespan of individuals wherein they are more sensitive to certain environmental stimuli. If this window of providing adequate stimulation is lost, there is possibility of complete lack of development in that domain. For instance, in the physical domain, the critical period is most rapidly evident in the prenatal stage (i.e. maximum physical development occurs during this stage), followed by infancy and then adolescence. This means that adequate stimulation & avoidance of any complications (such as exposure to teratogens during prenatal stage) can lead to age appropriate development of a child. Similarly, in the psychosocial domain, Erickson’s theory states that each stage of psychosocial development during the human lifespan has a psychosocial objective (sensitive/critical period for that objective to be achieved). For instance, during adolescence, the psychosocial crisis to be resolved would be self identity v/s confusion regarding self. This means that if a person receives adequate environmental stimulation, they be on the positive side of the spectrum versus in case of inadequate stimulation, they remain on the other side of the continuum. Also, there are in between states, wherein individuals juggle between the two (shades of grey). In case of cognitive development, Piaget’s theory of cognitive development states that the initial stage (from birth to 2 years) comprises of sensory-motor manipulation for learning to take place. This means the primary mode of learning for a child is though sensory and motor experiences. Also for brain development (which impacts the cognitive functioning), prenatal period is the critical period of development wherein maximum amount of changes in the brain take place.