Which statement describes Developmental theory?

• A. Emphasizes the id, ego, and superego as central to behavior
• B. Stresses the environment as the sole determinant of development
• C. Concerned with the study of progressive behavioral changes in an individual from birth until death
• D. Focuses on psychosexual stages driven by energy and drives

Answer: (C)

Developmental theory focuses on how people change across the entire life span, encompassing physical, cognitive, and psychosocial growth from birth through aging. The statement describing progressive behavioral changes from birth until death best fits this lifespan view, highlighting that development is an ongoing process that spans all life stages. The other descriptions point to specific theories—one reflects Freud’s psychodynamic view of internal drives and psychosexual stages, while another suggests development is determined solely by the environment. Developmental theory integrates change over time rather than reducing development to a single force, guiding how nurses assess and support individuals across different ages and stages.