Principles of the Life-Span Developmental Approach: Part 2

Paul B. Baltes identified seven key principles of life-span development. This lesson explains the last three principles.

The fifth principle states that development involves changing resource allocations.

Individuals constantly adjust how they use time, energy, and support across life stages.

For instance, teenagers focus on learning, adults balance work and family, and older adults may focus on health care for daily functioning.

Next, development shows plasticity, meaning abilities can improve with practice.

For example, older adults can improve memory through brain training or maintain strength through regular exercise, but plasticity has limits, because factors such as chronic illness or genetics may limit change.

The last principle states that development is influenced by the historical and cultural context.

For example, individuals who grow up with digital technology develop different learning and communication skills from those who were raised before the internet era.