Which statement best describes the relationship between short-term and long-term goals in developmental psychology?

• A. Short-term goals often serve as stepping stones that help individuals achieve their long-term goals.
• B. Long-term goals are typically achieved before short-term goals.
• C. Long-term goals are usually unrelated to short-term goals and are pursued independently.
• D. Short-term goals are less important than long-term goals and do not influence development.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definitions of short-term and long-term goals in developmental psychology. Short-term goals are immediate objectives that can be achieved relatively quickly, while long-term goals are broader aims that require sustained effort over time.
2. Step 2: Recognize that in developmental psychology, goal-setting is a process where short-term goals often function as manageable tasks or milestones that guide progress toward achieving more complex long-term goals.
3. Step 3: Analyze the relationship between the two types of goals by considering how achieving short-term goals builds skills, motivation, and confidence, which are essential for reaching long-term goals.
4. Step 4: Evaluate the incorrect options by noting that long-term goals are not typically achieved before short-term goals, and that short-term and long-term goals are usually connected rather than independent.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the best description is that short-term goals serve as stepping stones to long-term goals, highlighting their interdependent and sequential nature in developmental progress.