Which principle of development is illustrated in the following statement?
“Children who are deprived of a conducive environment for learning language in their early years have some difficulty picking language later in life.”

Correct option is B

The statement highlights the concept of a sensitive period in language development. Sensitive periods refer to specific windows of time in early childhood during which the brain is particularly receptive to acquiring certain skills, such as language. If a conducive environment is not provided during this period, it becomes more challenging to acquire the skill later. Language development, while partially influenced by genetics, heavily relies on interaction and exposure, especially during these critical early years.

Information Booster:

1. Sensitive periods are crucial for optimal development in areas like language and sensory skills.
2. Language acquisition heavily depends on social interaction and exposure.
3. Missing the sensitive period can result in delays or difficulties in language skills.
4. Neural plasticity is highest during sensitive periods, facilitating learning.
5. Early intervention can help mitigate the effects of deprivation during sensitive periods.

Additional Knowledge:

• Development is disorderly and unpredictable (Option A): Development generally follows predictable patterns, though individual variability exists.
• Sensitive period for language (Option B): Correct. Critical for acquiring native language fluency, typically in the first 5–7 years of life.
• Language and cognition interrelated (Option C): True, but the focus here is on timing, not the relationship between language and cognition.
• Language totally dependent on genetics (Option D): Incorrect. Genetics influence language ability, but environmental factors and interaction play crucial roles.