Baby Rolf first demonstrated the ability to kick and reach, then learned to rock on all fours, and later combined the skills to crawl. Rolf is exhibiting evidence of
A) dynamic systems theory of motor development.
B) the cephalocaudal trend.
C) the proximodistal trend.
D) a built-in maturational timetable.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The dynamic systems theory of motor development suggests that motor development occurs through the interaction of multiple systems, including the nervous system, musculoskeletal system, and environmental factors. As Rolf demonstrates the ability to combine and sequence motor skills to achieve specific goals, such as crawling, he is exhibiting evidence of the dynamic systems theory. The cephalocaudal and proximodistal trends both refer to the order in which motor skills develop, with the former referring to the trend for development to begin at the head and move downward, and the latter referring to the trend for development to begin at the center of the body and move outward. A built-in maturational timetable suggests that development occurs in a predetermined sequence and timeline, which is not consistent with the evidence presented in this scenario.

Baby Rolf First Demonstrated the Ability to Kick and Reach