What does the principle of development proceeding from general to specific indicate?

The principle of development proceeding from general to specific indicates that in the process of child development, children typically acquire broader skills and concepts before moving on to more specific and detailed skills. This means that foundational skills serve as the building blocks for later, more complex abilities. For example, a child may first learn to identify common shapes (a general skill) before being able to recognize specific features of different geometric figures. This sequence supports a structured approach to learning, allowing children to form connections between what they initially learn overall and then developing a more nuanced understanding as they grow.

When examining the other choices, the one suggesting skills develop randomly does not align with the systematic nature of developmental milestones. The idea that children learn specific skills prior to general concepts contradicts the logical sequence of acquiring foundational knowledge first. Finally, stating that all behaviors appear simultaneously overlooks the gradual progression inherent in development, where certain skills emerge sequentially as part of this general to specific trajectory.