What are the key characteristics of the life span approach?
Traditionally, the study of human development focused primarily on childhood and adolescence, with adulthood seen as a period of stability before decline. In contrast, the life span approach, pioneered by developmental psychologist Paul Baltes, posits that development is a continuous process occurring from conception to death, profoundly influencing our understanding of human growth. This perspective is defined by several key characteristics that emphasize the complexity and adaptability of human life at every stage.