Final answer:
Human development is described as a continuous process where change is gradual and improvements are built on existing skills. This pattern of development is recognized across different aspects of life, from individual growth to population changes, and is studied in developmental psychology.
Step-by-step explanation:
Because the changes that occur over time are patterned and orderly, human development is considered a(n) continuous process. In the field of psychology, particularly in developmental psychology, there are theories of development that emphasize growth and change throughout the human lifespan. There is a debate between whether this development is continuous, occurring gradually as one improves on existing skills, or discontinuous, happening in unique stages at specific times. The answer to whether human development is continuous or discontinuous varies among different theoretical approaches. For example, Demographic Transition Theory aligns with a continuous view, suggesting populations grow in a predictable pattern as societies evolve industrially. It's important to also mention that development can be seen in different patterns across cells, populations, and communities, demonstrating that development can be diverse and subject to different influences.