Which of the following statements is true regarding training and development in the context of developmental psychology?

• A. Developmental psychology does not consider the impact of training on individual growth.
• B. Training and development are identical processes that occur only during early childhood.
• C. Training and development are unrelated to cognitive growth.
• D. Development refers to long-term changes in behavior and abilities, while training typically involves short-term skill acquisition.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the key concepts: In developmental psychology, 'development' refers to long-term, progressive changes in behavior, abilities, and cognitive functions over time, while 'training' usually involves short-term learning aimed at acquiring specific skills.
2. Analyze the first statement: 'Developmental psychology does not consider the impact of training on individual growth.' Consider whether developmental psychology studies how experiences like training influence growth and development.
3. Evaluate the second statement: 'Training and development are identical processes that occur only during early childhood.' Reflect on whether training and development are the same and if they are limited to early childhood or span across the lifespan.
4. Assess the third statement: 'Training and development are unrelated to cognitive growth.' Think about how training and development might affect cognitive abilities and whether they are connected.
5. Compare all statements with the correct answer: 'Development refers to long-term changes in behavior and abilities, while training typically involves short-term skill acquisition.' Recognize that this distinction aligns with developmental psychology's understanding of growth and learning processes.