What do theorists who view development as stage-based believe?

The belief that development occurs in distinct stages reflects a foundational principle in various developmental theories. This perspective posits that individuals progress through a series of defined and sequential stages, each characterized by specific developmental tasks or challenges.

For instance, prominent theorists such as Jean Piaget with his cognitive development stages, Erik Erikson with his psychosocial stages, and Sigmund Freud with his psychosexual stages all emphasize that development is not a gradual and uninterrupted process. Instead, they argue that individuals undergo qualitative changes as they transition from one stage to another. Each stage represents a unique phase where new abilities emerge, changes in behavior occur, and specific conflicts must be resolved.

This concept offers a clear framework for understanding the developmental journey, making it easier to identify and analyze both individual growth patterns and universal developmental milestones across different populations. It highlights the importance of timing and readiness, suggesting that moving to the next stage involves mastering certain tasks before advancing. This stage-based approach has significant implications for fields such as education, psychology, and therapeutic practices.