Michael is able to control his trunk before he is able to gain fine control over his fingers. This pattern of development best fits __ development. A cephalocaudal B proximodistal C perceptual constancy D visual illusion
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is B. proximodistal.
Proximodistal development refers to the pattern of growth and motor control that starts from the center of the body (the trunk) and moves outward toward the extremities (the fingers and toes). In this pattern, control and coordination are gained first over the muscles closer to the midline of the body before the finer movements of the distal parts, such as the hands and fingers, develop.
In Michael’s case, the ability to control his trunk before he gains fine control over his fingers demonstrates proximodistal development. This is typical in motor development during infancy and early childhood. For example, infants first learn to control their shoulders and arms before they develop precise hand and finger movements.
In contrast, the cephalocaudal pattern (choice A) describes development progressing from the head down toward the feet. This means that infants gain control over head and neck movements first, then the upper body, and finally the lower body. Perceptual constancy (choice C) refers to the ability to perceive objects as stable and unchanging despite changes in sensory input, which is unrelated to motor control development. Visual illusion (choice D) involves misperceptions or incorrect interpretations of visual stimuli and does not describe developmental progression.
Understanding these patterns helps in tracking typical child development and identifying any delays or abnormalities. Proximodistal development shows how motor skills become more refined and coordinated over time, starting from larger movements to smaller, more precise ones. This progression supports children in performing everyday tasks such as reaching, grasping, and manipulating objects with increasing skill and accuracy.