What is described as an organized set of ideas designed to explain development?

A theory is described as an organized set of ideas designed to explain development. In developmental psychology, a theory provides a framework for understanding how and why individuals change over time. It integrates various observations and findings into a cohesive explanation, guiding research and informing practices related to human development.

Theories serve as a basis for forming hypotheses that can be tested through research, allowing for a deeper understanding of developmental processes across the lifespan. They encompass a range of topics such as cognitive development, emotional growth, social influences, and biological changes, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of human behavior and development.

In contrast, while a framework and a model can also be used in discussing development, they are broader concepts. A framework often outlines the structure and boundaries of a certain field or area of study without delving deeply into explanations like a theory does. A model may represent specific processes or phenomena, but it does not necessarily encompass the comprehensive explanatory nature of a theory. Thus, theory is the most fitting choice in this context, as it captures the essence of providing explanations for developmental phenomena.