How did Dewey and McGraw theorize that muscular (motor) development happens?

• A. They saw motor development as a function of multiple systems working together
• B. They believed that as the neural network developed, so did the muscles
• C. They saw this type of development as only a reaction to the environment
• D. They believed that kinetic energy within the child worked against environmental gravitational pull to aid muscular development

Answer: (D)

Muscular development is seen as an active process driven by the child’s own movement. As the child generates motion, kinetic energy is produced and must work against gravity and other environmental forces. This interaction provides natural resistance, so the muscles must engage, adapt, and strengthen as the child learns to control and coordinate movements. In this view, growth of strength and motor skills comes from actively moving and using the body against gravitational pull, rather than being driven solely by neural maturation or passive environmental factors. Activities that let a child move independently and encounter gravitational challenges—like climbing, hanging, or jumping—support this development by providing the internal energy and resistance needed to build strength and coordination.