A secular trend is a change in a landmark of development over successive generations, usually due to the influence of extrinsic factors. Some researchers have hypothesized current secular trends...

A secular trend is a change in a landmark of development over successive generations, usually due to the influence of extrinsic factors. Some researchers have hypothesized current secular trends toward earlier maturity, taller standing height, and greater body weight. Conduct an Internet search to locate information on these possible secular trends. Classify your information as (a) objective research conducted on a large number of participants, (b) anecdotal information about a single case, (c) an author’s hypothesis, or (d) opinion. Considering the information altogether, do you find credible evidence that a secular trend exists for any of these three landmarks of development? Support your conclusion with examples.