Question

a psychologist observes that an 8-year-old is capable of logically reversing mental operations (e.g., understanding that if 5+3=8, then 8-3=5), a skill a 4-year-old typically lacks. the psychologist concludes that a major, qualitative shift in the brain’s organization must have occurred around age 6 or 7. this conclusion fundamentally supports which theoretical perspective?

stage theory (discontinuous change)

physical development

continuous development

perceptual development

Explanation:

Stage theory (discontinuous change) posits development occurs in distinct stages with qualitative shifts. The psychologist’s conclusion of a major, qualitative shift in brain organization around age 6 - 7 (supporting the difference in logical reversal between 8 - year - olds and 4 - year - olds) aligns with stage theory. Physical development focuses on bodily growth, continuous development sees gradual change, and perceptual development is about sensory perception, none of which match the described cognitive stage - based shift.

Answer:

A. Stage theory (discontinuous change)