Correct Answer - Option 2 : Physical
An understanding of human growth and development is important for every person interested in the care of children. The knowledge helps to determine whether or not a child is healthy, mentally alert, and well adjusted to the environment.
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Growth is an important attribute of childhood. The process of growth starts from the conception of the fetus and continues till adolescence when the child matures into adulthood.
- The terms growth and development are generally interpreted to include all of the processes which lead to an increase in size and maturation of functions of the various organs of the body.
- Every child grows and develops in response to a predetermined plan. This plan is established at the time of his conception. However, environmental conditions and stimulations influence the growth and developmental patterns.
- The terms growth and development are closely interrelated and it is not possible to separate one from the other.
- In a normal child, they parallel each other but the terms are not the same. They represent two aspects of the change, i.e., quantity and quality, the body grows and behavior develops.
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Growth refers to an increase in the size of the body parts due to the multiplication of cells and an increase in the intercellular substance.
- It can be measured in inches or centimeters and in kilograms or pounds. It causes quantitative changes in the body. Each child has a different genetic potential for growth.
Thus, it is concluded that growth is related to the physical aspect of the personality of the child.
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Development refers to physiological maturation. It is a progressive increase in skill and capacity to function. It causes a qualitative change in a child's functioning. Unlike growth, it is rather difficult to assess development.
