Which statements about human development are true?

• A. It involves maturation
• B. It is the progressive series of changes toward the goal of maturity
• C. It is the gradual unfolding of the characteristics of the individuals as they go through the successive stages of growth
• D. All of the above

Answer: (D)

Human development is a process that includes maturation, a progressive trajectory toward maturity, and the unfolding of individual traits through stages of growth. Maturation refers to the biological and physiological changes that enable higher levels of functioning. The idea of a progressive series of changes toward maturity captures how development unfolds over time in an orderly path toward a more settled, mature state. The gradual unfolding of characteristics across successive stages emphasizes that growth happens step by step, with new skills and features emerging as a person moves through different periods of life. Put together, these aspects describe development in a comprehensive way, so all of the statements are true.