Nature vs. Nurture and its effects on childhood development

Nature Vs. Nurture and its Effects on Childhood Development Author’s Name The Institutional Affiliation Course Number and Name Instructor Name Assignment Due Date Table of Contents TOC \o "1-3" \h \z \u Introduction PAGEREF _Toc171699560 \h 3Nature vs Nurture in Child Development PAGEREF _Toc171699561 \h 3Historical Perspectives on Nature vs. Nurture PAGEREF _Toc171699562 \h 4Modern Understanding: Interaction of Nature and Nurture PAGEREF _Toc171699563 \h 4Influence of Nature on Child Development PAGEREF _Toc171699564 \h 5Influence of Nurture on Child Development PAGEREF _Toc171699565 \h 6Case Evaluation for Nature vs Nature Controversy PAGEREF _Toc171699566 \h 6Conclusion PAGEREF _Toc171699567 \h 7References PAGEREF _Toc171699568 \h 8 Introduction Childhood development is one of the controversial topics nowadays because it sets the child’s future direction. Several factors influence child development; however, the roles played by nature and nurture have appealed to the parents, specifically regarding their child’s overall grooming. Since every factor associated with child development has its independent importance, it is complex to determine whether nature is significant in childhood development or nurture outmatches nature. A child’s response in a particular situation is attributable to nature (genetic, biological forces) and nurture (environmental forces) (Collins et al., 2022). However, an analysis of nature and nurture and their comparison in childhood development can help researchers determine their independent contribution, and this research investigates the same questions in this paper. Nature vs Nurture in Child Development In a child’s growth, “Nature” plays a significant part by including inherited traits like the child’s characteristics, the tendency to develop familial disorders and genetic features. The hereditary traits are carried from the birth parents to the offspring and account for physical features like hair, height, appearance, and mental capabilities (Farooqi, n.d). On the other hand, “Nurture” refers to the effect of the surrounding conditions on the child’s growth. Different aspects contribute to the child’s nurturing, including the living conditions, parenting approach, heritage, and upbringing. The surrounding status critically impacts the psychological progression, knowledge prospects, and youth demeanor (Reiss et al. 2022). Hence, it is essential to consider the environmental conditions for building a child’s character. The link between nurture and nature holds significance in the context of child progression. The environmental conditions can improve or lessen the hereditary inclination passed on to the offspring. The inherited weaknesses and predispositions can be surmounted by providing a supportive atmosphere that encourages strength and positive growth (Houmark, Ronda & Rosholm, 2024). Comprehending the connection between nurture and nature in child growth is vital to optimizing healthy progression. Historical Perspectives on Nature vs. Nurture The previous theories suggested that the context of nature depends on nativism and genetic essentialism. According to these theories, a child’s progression entirely relies on hereditary and inborn biological factors. The nativist theorists believe that some capabilities are inborn in the child, like their linguistic development. Nevertheless, empiric and behavioral psychology determines that the surrounding conditions cultivate the path of child growth (Farooqi, n.d). The researchers’ findings supported the shift towards adopting holistic methods regarding acknowledging restrictions on these beliefs. The modern viewpoints suggest a connection between hereditary inclination and surrounding conditions. Epigenetics and growth psychology impact this connection. The holistic approaches recognize that despite the initial structure laid by the inheritance, external interactions play a vital role in directing the child’s development. It provides a better understanding of the impact of the environment on maximizing a child’s potential in growth phases. Modern Understanding: Interaction of Nature and Nurture Contemporary research has revealed the reciprocal and mutual influence that links inheritance and surrounding conditions. The child’s growth mechanism is influenced by the connection between inherited factors and the external element (Reiss et al., 2022). Th...