Final answer:
Erik Erikson's epigenetic principle emphasizes the interactive influence of genetics and environment on psychosocial development, distinguishing it from Freud's focus on psychosexual stages and inherent desires and highlighting the importance of social interactions throughout one's lifespan. The answer is option B.
Step-by-step explanation:
The epigenetic principle, as proposed by developmental psychologist Erik Erikson, is closely related to his theory of psychosocial development which suggests that personality development is a lifelong process and is shaped by the social interactions we have throughout our lives.
According to Erikson, the principle suggests that the interplay of genetics and environment influences psychological development, highlighting how various stages of life pose different challenges and opportunities for growth, leading to changes in personality over time. Unlike Freud's theory, which was primarily focused on psychosexual stages and inherent desires, Erikson's approach emphasized the social environment's influence on self-development and on the ongoing negotiation and integration of individual needs and societal expectations.