Human Growth and Development

C. Growth and Maturation This section covers physical growth and maturation across the lifespan and how these processes influence our abilities. Principles of Biological Development

●​ Cephalocaudal Principle: states that growth happens from the head down to the toes. Motor skills develop in this order, with head and neck control emerging before control of the torso and limbs. For example, infants can hold their heads up before they can crawl. ●​ Proximodistal Principle suggests that motor skills develop from the center of the body outward. Fine motor skills, like hand control, develop before gross motor skills, like arm and leg movements. For example, babies can grasp a toy before they can crawl. ●​ Orthogenetic Principle (Werner's Theory): This principle suggests that both biological and psychological development follow a directional pattern, progressing from simple to complex, such as from basic skills like grasping to more advanced abilities like playing a musical instrument. ●​ Maturation and Learning: Maturation is the genetically programmed development of biological functions, crucial for motor, sensory, and cognitive growth. As the brain matures, cognitive abilities improve, enabling learning. For example, a newborn can't babble until their brain matures enough for complex vocalizations. Physical Development in Newborn Newborns are born with innate reflexes and behaviors that support early development. Reflexes are involuntary responses to stimuli, essential for survival and form the foundation for later motor development.

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