Concept:Development is a continuous, lifelong process influenced by heredity and environment. The rate of development varies among individuals.Explanation:Development refers to qualitative changes across life. It follows predictable patterns but not a fixed pace. Each individual has unique genetic and environmental factors, causing differences in developmental rates. For example, heredity, nutrition, culture, and experiences all affect the pace. Thus, development does not stop after middle childhood nor is it independent of socio-cultural context. It is also not highly unpredictable—it follows sequences like cephalocaudal and proximodistal. Therefore, the correct characteristic is that developmental changes occur at varying rates in individuals.Answer: C. occur at varying rates in individuals.