Final answer:
An "expert," in the context of developmental psychology, is someone who is markedly better than others at a certain task due to a combination of factors including special skills, dedicated learning, practice, and experience in a specialized area.
Step-by-step explanation:
When developmental psychologists refer to a person as an "expert," they typically mean that the individual is significantly better than others at performing a certain task (d). This does not necessarily imply that the person is extraordinarily gifted or innately skilled, nor does it always correlate with having advanced credentials, although such credentials can indeed be a marker of expertise in many fields.
In developmental psychology, the focus is often on how expertise develops over time and not just on innate abilities or formal qualifications. This can involve studying the adaptations and modifications made by cultural experts, the experiences and education of adept individuals, and the contributions of highly intelligent or gifted individuals to their respective domains.
Looking at the definition of expertise through different lenses, we can see that specialization also plays a role in becoming an expert. Individuals may become experts through extensive experience and practice in a specific area, shaped by their education, skills, and interests. The development of expertise is multifaceted, reflecting a combination of factors including natural aptitude, dedicated learning, and practical experience.