A teratogen is any substance, agent, or environmental factor that can cause developmental abnormalities in a fetus during pregnancy. In psychology and developmental science, teratogens are studied for their impact on cognitive, behavioral, and emotional development. Common teratogens include alcohol, certain drugs, infections, and environmental toxins. Exposure during critical periods of prenatal development can result in lasting neurodevelopmental consequences, including intellectual disabilities, attention deficits, and behavioral disorders. Understanding teratogens is essential for prenatal care and prevention of developmental disorders. For example, alcohol consumption during pregnancy is a well-documented teratogen that can cause fetal alcohol spectrum disorders affecting cognition and behavior.
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