The main features of life-span perspective on development are as follows:

(i) Development is lifelong i.e., it takes place across all age groups starting from conception to old age. It includes both gains and losses, which interact in dynamic ways throughout the lifespan.

(ii) The various processes of human development i.e., biological, cognitive, and socio-emotional are interwoven in the development of a person throughout the life span.

(iii) Development is multi-directional. Some dimensions or components of a given dimension of development may increase, while others show decrement. For example, the experiences of adults may make them wiser and guide their decisions. However, with and increase in age, one’s performance is likely to decrease on tasks requiring speed, such as running.

(iv) Development is highly plastic, i.e., within person, modifiability is found in psychological development though plasticity varies among individuals.

(v) Development is the concern of a number of disciplines. Different disciplines like psychology, anthropology, sociology and neurosciences study human development, each trying to provide answers to development throughout the life-span.