1. BASIC CONCEPTS OF DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY : The underlying processes and principles of development : Maturation, growth and ageing; Increase in complexity: differentiation and integration; Learning; Socialisation; Interaction between various processes. Areas of development : Physical development; Cognitive development; Social development; Personality development. Developmental stages : The stages of development in their historical context; Stages of the life span. Determinants of development : Genetic factors; Constitutional determinants; The nervous system; The endocrine system; The general state of health; The total physique; Environmental determinants; The physical environment; The social environment; Specific events; Personal determinants. Empirical research methods in developmental psychology : Formulating questions and defining concepts; Methods of gathering information : Observation of behaviour; Interviews; Cultural products; Psychological tests. Kinds of research : Experimental research; Correlational research; Exploratory research. Designs for research in developmental psychology : The longitudinal design; The cross-sectional design; The tim.