In developmental psychology, stage theories hold that the sequence of development is ________.

• A. universal and fixed
• B. unique to each individual with no common pattern
• C. random and unpredictable
• D. entirely determined by genetics

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of stage theories in developmental psychology, which propose that development occurs in distinct stages.
2. Recognize that these stages are thought to follow a specific order that applies broadly across individuals.
3. Recall that 'universal' means the sequence is common to all humans, and 'fixed' means the order does not change.
4. Compare the options given: 'universal and fixed' aligns with the idea that everyone goes through the same stages in the same order.
5. Conclude that the correct description of stage theories is that the sequence of development is universal and fixed.