Problem
Piaget's theory is a stage theory. In contrast, behavioral theories of child development, emphasizing mechanisms of learning, are generally continuous theories. Through much of the history of the field of child development, scientists have argued about whether child development is stage-like or continuous. In current times, this argument seems obsolete because it creates a false dichotomy--that development must be one or the other.
1) In what ways is child development largely stagelike?
2) In what ways is it largely continuous?
3) What is another false dichotomy in the field of child development?
4) What is a false dichotomy in our society?
5) How do false dichotomies impair people's critical thinking?