---
title: "Critical Period — AP Psychology Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "The critical period is a developmental window when learning happens most easily, like language acquisition. Key to AP Psych Units 5 and 6, plus its famous limits."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/critical-period"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Psychology"
---

# Critical Period — AP Psychology Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

In psychology, the critical period refers to a specific time during development when an organism is most sensitive to environmental influences or stimuli. During this time, certain behaviors and abilities can be learned more easily than at other times.

## Related Study Guides

- [5.11 Components of Language and Language Acquisition](/ap-psych-revised/unit-5/components-language-language-acquisition/study-guide/Ar3Z9WPk5xzcLKVjn97r)
- [6.2 Social Development in Childhood](/ap-psych-revised/unit-6/social-development-childhood/study-guide/ahgQOpxPbSF2iDsgczgK)

## Review

### Related Terms

- Sensitive Period: A time during an organism's development when it is more responsive to certain stimuli, but the absence of those stimuli does not always result in irreversible consequences.
- [Imprinting](/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/imprinting): A form of learning occurring at a particular age or a particular life stage that is rapid and apparently independent of the consequences of behavior.
- [Neuroplasticity](/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/neuroplasticity): The brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life.