Final answer:
The adolescent growth spurt is an example of discontinuous development because it is a dramatic and sudden change that occurs during puberty in distinct stages.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks which of the following is an example of development occurring discontinuously the adolescent growth spurt
- scaffolding
- acquiring social skills
- learning new vocabulary words
In the context of psychological development, discontinuous development refers to development that takes place in unique stages and occurs at specific times or ages, often leading to sudden changes. Continuous development, on the other hand, is gradual and cumulative, characterized by incremental improvements on existing skills.
When examining the options given above, the adolescent growth spurt fits the description of discontinuous development. The adolescent growth spurt is a dramatic increase in height and weight that occurs during puberty. It is sudden and occurs in stages, corresponding with the hormonal changes that characterize this period of human development.
This makes it a clear example of discontinuous development compared to the other options listed which represent more continuous forms of development, such as scaffolding and acquiring skills gradually over time.