Which of the following statements best describes the relationship between crystallized intelligence and age according to developmental psychology?

• A. Crystallized intelligence is unrelated to age and remains constant across the lifespan.
• B. Crystallized intelligence tends to increase or remain stable as individuals age.
• C. Crystallized intelligence is highest in childhood and decreases throughout life.
• D. Crystallized intelligence declines rapidly after early adulthood.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of crystallized intelligence: it refers to the accumulation of knowledge, facts, and skills that are acquired throughout life, often through education and experience.
2. Recall developmental psychology findings on how crystallized intelligence changes with age, noting that it typically does not decline rapidly but rather remains stable or improves over time.
3. Compare the given statements to this understanding: identify which statement aligns with the idea that crystallized intelligence is maintained or increases with age.
4. Eliminate options that suggest crystallized intelligence decreases rapidly or is highest in childhood, as these contradict established research.
5. Conclude that the best description is the one stating that crystallized intelligence tends to increase or remain stable as individuals age.