Discontinuous process is described as:

• A. Change is qualitative and step-like; development occurs in discrete steps or stages
• B. Continuous quantitative progression
• C. Environmental forces are sole influence
• D. No development occurs

Answer: (A)

Discontinuous development involves qualitative changes that occur in distinct steps or stages, not a smooth, gradual progression. The best choice captures this by describing change as qualitative and step-like, with development unfolding in discrete stages. This idea fits theories such as Piaget’s stages of cognitive development, where each stage represents a fundamentally different way of thinking that can’t be fully explained by simply adding more of the same abilities. Recognizing this helps anticipate stage-specific abilities and transitions in a person’s lifespan. In contrast, a continuous progression means gradual, quantitative growth without clear breakpoints; claiming that environmental factors are the sole influence ignores the biological and genetic contributions to development, and saying no development occurs is simply incorrect.