What does the Epigenetic Principle state?

• A. Development follows biological order
• B. Development is entirely socially constructed
• C. Development proceeds in a non-sequential random pattern
• D. Development is fixed at birth

Answer: (A)

The main concept being tested is that development unfolds in an orderly, stage-like progression in which each stage builds on what came before. The epigenetic principle, as discussed in psychosocial development theory, holds that growth proceeds along a predetermined sequence. So saying that development follows biological order best captures this idea: there’s a progressive, cumulative unfolding rather than a random or solely socially constructed process, and it occurs across the lifespan with timing that can vary but the order remains.

Why the other ideas don’t fit: viewing development as entirely socially constructed ignores the built-in, sequential structure of growth; thinking development is a non-sequential random pattern contradicts the idea of an orderly progression; and saying development is fixed at birth denies that development continues and changes throughout life.