Sequences of lifetime development

Baltes (1987) presents four ways that developmental sequences characterize the lifespan developmental perspective.

1. Development is not limited to the early years of life but is a lifelong process.
2. Development is multidimensional
3. Development is multidirectional.
   1. Considering items 2 and 3 together, development involves multiple competencies and dimensions that follow different paths that reflect the context in which the individual develops
4. Plasticity provides variability and determines the potential an individual has to develop different forms of behavior.

In other words, the dynamic nature of individuals and the environment creates multiple pathways for development. Baltes (1987) concludes that the developmental sequence is a succession of gains and losses, not a progressive development. For example, individuals may gain the ability to speak in a native language, while losing the capacity to speak fluently in other languages.