CMA General & Administrative Practice Test 2026 - Free CMA Practice Questions and Study Guide

The term 'development' is commonly used to describe a behavioral aspect characterized by an increase in complexity of function and skill. Development encompasses a broad spectrum of changes, including cognitive, emotional, and physical advancements that lead to more sophisticated abilities.

When we talk about development, we often refer to the systematic progression of skills and competencies that occur over time, which allows an individual to handle more complex tasks and thoughts. This term embodies the idea of qualitative changes—enhanced capabilities and deeper understandings that signify maturity in various contexts.

In contrast, while 'growth' typically refers to a quantitative increase, such as height or weight, it does not necessarily imply an advancement in skill complexity. 'Progression' can denote a movement forward but often lacks the emphasis on refining and enhancing abilities that 'development' clearly conveys. 'Evolution,' while indicating a process of gradual change, often relates to biological or systemic changes over long periods, which is different from the specific behavioral and skill-based improvements associated with development.