According to Clark and Whitall, motor development primarily studies what aspect?

Motor development, as outlined by Clark and Whitall, primarily examines changes in motor behavior across the lifespan. This perspective emphasizes the understanding that motor skills and capabilities evolve as individuals grow and progress from infancy, through childhood, and into adulthood and old age. By focusing on the entire lifespan, this approach considers the biological, environmental, and experiential factors that contribute to motor performance changes.

In contrast to other aspects, like children's movement or specific changes in movement, this comprehensive viewpoint captures the dynamic process of development. It accounts for the influence of aging, learning experiences, opportunities for practice, and changes in health and physical capacities. This broad framework is essential for understanding how motor abilities can be nurtured or hindered at various stages, providing valuable insights into physical education, rehabilitation, and developmental psychology.