Development of Physiological Processes and Acquisition of Developmental Milestones
What are the key aspects related to the development of physiological processes and the acquisition of developmental milestones?
1. Maturation
2. Learning
Key Aspects of Development
1. Maturation
2. Learning
When considering the development of physiological processes and the acquisition of developmental milestones and skills, two important aspects are maturation and learning. Maturation refers to the genetically programmed processes of growth and development that occur independently of environmental influences, such as the ability to walk or run. This development includes a change in body proportions, brain size, and sensory and motor capacities. On the other hand, learning relates to changes in behavior as a result of experience or practice. Learning, for example, is involved when a child learns to speak a language or solve a problem, skills that are gained through exposure and not simply programmed genetically.