After observing children interacting with a department store Santa Claus,a psychologist decides to study children's beliefs in Santa.Prior to beginning the study,the psychologist predicts that 5-year-olds will believe in Santa,10-year-olds will not be sure of their belief,and 15-year-olds will not believe at all.This prediction represents a

A) theory.
B) method.
C) paradigm.
D) hypothesis.

Department Store Santa

An individual who portrays Santa Claus in retail settings during the holiday season, engaging with children and customers.

Belief

Belief is the mental acceptance of a proposition, statement, or fact as true, often without full empirical evidence, shaping one's perceptions, actions, and understanding of the world.

Psychologist

A professional specialized in the study of mind and behavior, often involved in research, assessment, and therapy related to psychological processes and disorders.