Final answer:
The development of a perspective on death is indeed continuous, starting from childhood and is shaped by lifelong experiences and cultural influences. This is a core aspect of thanatology and the model of grief developed by Kübler-Ross.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that the development of a perspective on death is continuous and begins in childhood is true. The understanding and attitudes towards death evolve as a person grows, influenced by cultural values, personal experiences, and biological and psychological development. The field of thanatology explores these aspects extensively. One of the key contributions to our understanding of how individuals confront death is the five-stage model of grief proposed by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, which includes denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. This model reflects a process through which some individuals may pass as they come to terms with the reality of death, whether their own or someone else's. However, it's important to note that the experience of dying and the grief process is highly individual and can be influenced by various factors such as religious beliefs, social supports, and individual temperament.
Additionally, the process of aging and facing mortality is an integral part of lifespan development. As individuals age and witness the deaths of others, they often develop their perspectives on death. The view that this development is a cumulative process aligns with the idea of continuous development, where skills and understanding are gradually built over time. The development of a perspective on death indeed begins in childhood and continues throughout the individual's life, being molded by various life experiences.