Which term is defined as the scientific study of the emotional and behavioral growth of humans from birth to death?

• A. Puberty
• B. Adolescence
• C. Developmental psychology
• D. Intellectual disabilities

Answer: (C)

Understanding how people grow emotionally and behaviorally across the entire life span is the focus here. Developmental psychology studies changes from birth through death, including the development of emotions, social relationships, and behavior, and how genetics, environment, culture, and experiences shape that growth. Puberty is the hormonal and physical maturation during adolescence, adolescence is just that life stage, and intellectual disabilities describe a condition affecting intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior, not a field of study. The term that fits this description is developmental psychology, the scientific study of emotional and behavioral development across the life span.