Certificate In Psychology (CPSY) Practice Exam

Which consensus is held by modern psychologists regarding human development?

1. No single theoretical framework adequately characterizes all of development.

2. Erikson's description alone suffices to understand the process of development.

3. Piaget's stage theory accurately describes development through adolescence.

4. The sociocultural approach is the optimal understanding of development.

The correct answer is: No single theoretical framework adequately characterizes all of development.

Modern psychologists generally agree that human development is complex and cannot be fully explained by a single theoretical framework. This consensus acknowledges the multifaceted nature of development, incorporating various factors such as biology, environment, social interactions, and culture. Different theories provide valuable insights, but each has its limitations and may not account for all aspects of development. While various theories like Erikson's psychosocial stages and Piaget's cognitive development stages contribute to our understanding, they do not encompass the entirety of the human developmental process. By recognizing the complexity and diversity of developmental pathways, psychologists are better equipped to address the varied experiences individuals go through across different stages of life. This perspective celebrates the richness of human experience, incorporating elements from multiple theories rather than relying solely on any one framework.