Why is Lightner Witmer significant in the field of psychology?

Lightner Witmer is significant in the field of psychology primarily because he founded the first psychological clinic that specifically focused on children. This marked a pivotal development in the field, as it was one of the first instances where psychological principles were systematically applied to support children with various psychological concerns. Witmer emphasized the importance of understanding children's individual needs and the necessity of addressing these through tailored interventions.

His work laid the groundwork for the field of school psychology, influencing subsequent practices in educational settings. By addressing the psychological aspects of learning and development, Witmer's clinic became a model for future psychological services aimed at children. This emphasis on child-centered psychology contributed to advancements in both education and clinical psychology, establishing a framework that continues to inform current practices.

In contrast, the other options, such as developing intelligence scales or conducting longitudinal studies, are attributed to other prominent figures in psychology, and structured interviews, while significant, were not specifically introduced by Witmer. His legacy primarily rests on his pioneering efforts in establishing a clinic that brought psychological support to children, thus shaping the future of school psychological services.