Final answer:
In the Berkeley longitudinal studies, the characteristic that generally changed across time for adults is Cognitive abilities, as they tend to remain stable through early and middle adulthood but begin to decline in late adulthood. Option C
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of the Berkeley longitudinal studies, the characteristic that generally changed across time for the adult is C. Cognitive abilities. Unlike our physical abilities, which peak in early adulthood and then start to decline, our cognitive abilities remain relatively stable through early and middle adulthood.
Research has shown that crystallized intelligence, which includes knowledge accumulated from life experiences, may even improve as we age. However, it is noted that fluid intelligence, such as information processing, reasoning, and memory, begins to decline in late adulthood.
Engaging in mental and physical activities can help delay the onset of cognitive decline and reduce the incidence of mild cognitive impairment and dementia. Option C