Intellectual and cognitive development across the human lifespan

Intellectual and cognitive development across the human lifespan

Infancy (0-2 Years)

  • Initial intellectual development is centred around understanding the world through the senses.
  • Object permanence, understanding that things continue to exist when not perceived, begins to develop.
  • Foundational language skills are being formed through babbling and responding to facial expressions and sounds.

Early Childhood (2-8 Years)

  • Language skills rapidly expand, allowing for basic conversation and expression of feelings.
  • Developing cognitive abilities support the understanding of basic concepts such as numbers and space.
  • Early stages of reading and writing are developing which supports intellectual growth.
  • Fundamental problem-solving skills are learned and applied in play activities.

Adolescence (9-18 Years)

  • Thinking becomes more abstract and logical, allowing complex problems to be solved.
  • Cognitive abilities enable adolescents to understand complex academic concepts and engage in theoretical discussion.
  • A mature concept of future-oriented thinking is formed, allowing for the planning of long-term goals.
  • Adolescents may begin to question and form personal morals, beliefs, and values.

Adulthood (19-65 Years)

  • Intellectual abilities and knowledge continue to develop through life experiences and ongoing education.
  • Problem-solving skills may become more advanced as experience widens.
  • Many individuals may specialise in certain knowledge areas related to career or personal interest.
  • Air towards a more balanced perspective when dealing with life’s issues, using both emotion and cognition.

Old Age (65+ Years)

  • Cognitive process may slow down, which can lead to slower reaction times.
  • Abilities such as learning new tasks, processing information, and remembering details may decline.
  • Continued engagement in mental activities like reading, puzzles, or social interaction can help maintain cognitive abilities.
  • Some individuals may experience significant cognitive decline, such as dementia, affecting memory and daily function.