What term describes the idea that individuals can change from one developmental path to another throughout their lives?

The concept that individuals can change from one developmental path to another throughout their lives is best described as "discontinuity." This term reflects the idea that development is not always a smooth, linear process but is marked by distinct stages or shifts that can lead to different outcomes at different times.

Discontinuity recognizes that individuals can undergo significant changes, transitions, or transformations in behavior, personality, or skills due to various influences, including environment, experiences, and biology. This perspective aligns with developmental theories that emphasize the possibility of transformation and the impact of critical periods or life events, suggesting that development is an ongoing and dynamic process rather than a fixed trajectory.

In contrast, continuity refers to a more gradual and incremental development, while the epigenetic principle highlights the interaction between genetics and environment in development, and learning theory focuses on how behaviors are acquired and changed through experience. None of these concepts fully encapsulates the idea of changing developmental paths as effectively as discontinuity does.