Which statement defines a developmental crisis?

• A. It occurs as a person progresses through life stages.
• B. It is caused by external events such as job loss.
• C. It is triggered by violence.
• D. It is a sudden physical injury.

Answer: (A)

A developmental crisis emerges as a person progresses through life stages. It stems from the challenge of adapting to new roles, tasks, and expectations that come with growth and transition (like adolescence, starting college, entering parenthood, or retirement). If coping resources or supports aren’t enough, this normal developmental process can feel overwhelming, producing a crisis that is tied to development itself rather than to a specific external event.

In contrast, crises triggered by external events such as job loss are situational; they arise from circumstances outside the normal development sequence. Violence or sudden injury are acute stressors that can precipitate a crisis, but they’re not defined by the developmental progression through life stages.