School social workers use developmental theory to

• A. Focus on testing
• B. Standardize services
• C. Ignore development
• D. Individualize services by tailoring to developmental functioning

Answer: (D)

Developmental theory emphasizes that children's needs and abilities change as they grow, so interventions must align with where they are developmentally. School social workers use this by assessing a student’s current emotional, social, cognitive, and physical development and then tailoring supports to fit that level and the next steps in growth. This makes services responsive and appropriate rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. For example, younger students may benefit from structured routines and social skills coaching, while adolescents might need more autonomy and collaborative goal-setting with family and school staff. This contrasts with focusing on testing or standardizing services, which prioritize measurement or a uniform approach over individualized, developmentally matching support, or ignoring development altogether.