Human development is a complex and lifelong process characterized by significant changes in physical, cognitive, and psychosocial domains. It is typically divided into the following stages:
Prenatal Period
- Conception to birth
- Rapid growth and development of organs and systems
Infancy and Toddlerhood
- Birth to approximately 2 years
- Physical growth, motor skill development, language acquisition, and attachment formation
Early Childhood
- Approximately 2 to 6 years
- Increasing independence, cognitive development, and socialization
Middle Childhood
- Approximately 6 to 11 years
- Academic achievement, social comparison, and development of self-concept
Adolescence
- Approximately 11 to 18 years
- Academic achievement, social comparison, and development of self-concept
Early Adulthood
- Approximately 18 to 40 years
- Establishing career, intimate relationships, and family
Middle Adulthood
- Approximately 40 to 65 years
- Career advancement, midlife crisis, and focus on family and community
Late Adulthood
- 65 years and older
- Retirement, physical decline, and life reflection
