1. In this discussion you will learn more about prenatal influences and developmental concerns. To prepare for your discussion, visit the Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders page of the Center for Diseas

1. In this discussion you will learn more about prenatal influences and developmental concerns. To prepare for your discussion, visit the Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders page of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2012). Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders. Available from: http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/fasd/index.html

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  • Consider the following scenario: You are at a party with some friends, and one of the women in the party is drinking. You notice that she looks about six months pregnant. One of your friends asks her why she is drinking when she is pregnant and she replies “well, my mom drank the whole pregnancy and I really don't drink that much. There is nothing to worry about". These are friends and you are put on the spot as the Child Development Specialist and asked what you think. This is your opportunity to be a resource for your friends. With all of your research materials in mind: Post your thoughts as to the risks involved in drinking during pregnancy, and how you would respond to the young woman's assertion that “there is nothing to worry about.”

2. What behaviors must a woman avoid engaging in when she decides to try to become pregnant, or when she finds out she is pregnant? Do you think the ability of a mother to engage in healthy behaviors should influence her choice to have a child?

3. Given the negative effects of poverty on human development, what steps do you think societies should take to try to reduce poverty?

4. Explain how the developing embryo and fetus may be harmed by the presence of teratogens and describe what a mother can do to reduce her risk.

5. List and explain each stage of fetal development.