The Importance of Evolutionary Theory for Developmental Science – and Vice Versa: The Case of Developmental Psychology

Abstract

The empirical and conceptual interrelations of phylogeny (evolution) and ontogeny (development) may prove to be more important than previously acknowledged. It is argued that this holds particularly for evolutionary psychology. For instance, an evolutionary point of view will add to the explanation of (the shape of) pre- and postreductive phases of human development. Beyond the prospects of an evolutionary developmental psychology, the integrative potential of the crucial evolutionary concept of adaptation both for developmental and regulating (coping) processes is proposed as a useful starting point for the conceptual convergence of evolution and development.