Which statement best represents the view of developmentalists in the field of developmental psychology?

• A. Development is a lifelong process that involves both continuity and change across the lifespan.
• B. Genetic factors are the sole determinants of human development, with environment playing no role.
• C. Development is entirely unpredictable and does not follow any patterns or stages.
• D. Development only occurs during childhood and stops once adulthood is reached.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that developmental psychology studies how people grow and change throughout their entire life, not just in childhood.
2. Recognize that developmentalists believe development involves both continuity (things that stay the same) and change (things that evolve) across the lifespan.
3. Know that genetic factors and environmental influences both play important roles in shaping development, rather than genetics alone.
4. Be aware that development is generally seen as following certain patterns or stages, making it somewhat predictable rather than entirely random.
5. Conclude that the best representation of developmentalists' view is that development is a lifelong process involving both continuity and change.