The document provides an overview of developmental psychology, including:
1. It discusses several philosophical roots of explanations for human development such as original sin, innate goodness, and the blank slate theory.
2. Early scientific theories focused on documenting physical changes and establishing norms, while maturation theories emphasized genetically programmed development.
3. Modern perspectives consider development across the lifespan rather than only in childhood, and examine factors like nature vs nurture, ecology, and historical/cultural context.
4. Research methods discussed include basic and applied research using experimental, longitudinal, and observational designs while addressing ethical issues.
