The term sensitive period applies better to human development than the strict notion of a critical period because
A) its boundaries are less well-defined than are those of a critical period.
B) the capacity to acquire certain skills cannot occur later than the optimal period.
C) there are more sensitive periods than critical periods in human development.
D) sensitive periods, but not critical periods, have been empirically tested.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The term sensitive period is more flexible and less strict than the term critical period because it implies that certain periods are optimal for learning specific skills, but there is still potential for learning outside of that period. The boundaries of sensitive periods are less well-defined than critical periods. Option B may be true for critical periods, but not for sensitive periods. Option C is not necessarily true, as the number of sensitive and critical periods may overlap or vary depending on the skill or developmental domain. Option D is not true, as both sensitive and critical periods have been empirically tested.

The Term Sensitive Period Applies Better to Human Development Than