A theory of development __________.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A theory of development describes, explains, and predicts behavior. It provides a framework for understanding how individuals grow and change over time. The purpose of a theory is not to illustrate ultimate truth or explain all aspects of human growth, but rather to help researchers and practitioners make sense of and predict human behavior. Theories are expected to be tested and refined through scientific verification. Choice A is incorrect because theories do not necessarily illustrate ultimate truth. Choice C is incorrect as theories focus on behavior and development, not all aspects of human growth. Choice D is incorrect because scientific verification is essential for theories to be valid and reliable.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The lifespan perspective on human development assumes that development is multidimensional and multidirectional. This means that development occurs in various domains (such as physical, cognitive, and psychosocial) and can involve gains and losses as individuals age. This perspective recognizes that human development is complex and dynamic, involving various factors and pathways over the course of a person's life. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because human development is not static and stable (A), can involve both continuous and discontinuous changes (C), and is influenced by a combination of heredity and environment rather than solely by heredity (D).

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Nonnormative. Nonnormative influences are events or experiences that are irregular and unique to the individual, so they do not follow a predictable timetable. These influences can include major life events like winning the lottery or experiencing a natural disaster, and they have a significant impact on a person's development. Choice B, History-graded influences, are events that are common to people of a particular generation due to historical circumstances. Choice C, Age-graded influences, are events that are typical for people of a certain age group. Choice D, Bio-historical, is not a recognized term in developmental psychology.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Charles Darwin's theory of evolution emphasized natural selection and survival of the fittest. Natural selection is the process by which organisms with traits that help them survive and reproduce in their environment are more likely to pass on these traits to their offspring. Survival of the fittest refers to the idea that the organisms best adapted to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce, leading to the gradual evolution of species over time. Both concepts are central to Darwin's theory of evolution. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not accurately reflect the key principles highlighted by Darwin in his theory of evolution.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The first successful intelligence test, the Binet-Simon Scale, was originally developed to identify children with learning problems who required special educational interventions. Choice A is incorrect because measuring individual differences in IQ was not the primary purpose of the test. Choice B is incorrect because documenting age-related improvements in children's intellectual functioning was not the main goal of the test. Choice D is incorrect because comparing the scores of people based on gender, ethnicity, and birth order was not the intended use of the intelligence test.