G rowth and D evelopment The terms growth and development are used in various aspects of life. Growth can be explained as becoming bigger or larger. Growth is termed as a physical change, whereas development includes physical, social, and psychological changes. Development also means transformation or improvement.
Growth is related to quantitative improvement. Development is related to quantitative as well as qualitative improvement. Growth Growth refers to the process through which the body increases in size and shape. It is a biological process.
In other words, growth means increase in mass. From the time of conception, the process of growth starts in the mother’s womb. The fertilised egg continues to grow and after birth this process goes on till complete physical maturity is obtained. Growth is thus, a quantitative increase in size and shape.
Physical growth refers to these changes in size and shape of different organs of the body, each of which normally proceeds at a different rate. Growth therefore, is a tangible biological process in which the organism gains in terms of size, volume, height, and weight. Development Development is related with advancement and a progressive series of qualitative changes. Development processes have greater relationship with external factors than growth.
Proper development cannot take place unless external factors such as nutrition, activity, and protection from diseases, and other socio-cultural influences are well ensured. More specifically development can be defined as the emerging and expanding of capabilities of the individual. Growth forms the basis for the development of functional capacities of the child. Without proper growth, probably the required level of development may not be achieved at a given stage.
Acquisition of skills and knowledge also indicates developmental process. Although growth comes to end at some stage of life, development continues till death. Table : Difference between Growth and Development Growth Development Growth is visible. Development can be observed.
Growth is quantitative. Development is quantitative as well as qualitative. Growth comprises of height, weight, size, and shape of body and its organs. Along with the physical changes, cognitive, social, and emotional changes are also included.
It is due to cell division. It happens due to motor and mental processes and their interplay. Growth is for limited period. Development is a life long process.
Growth can be measured objectively. It can be observed by matured behaviour. Growth tells about one aspect of the personality and is limited in scope. Development deals with all the aspects of personality and has a vast scope.
Growth can be measured and continues up to certain age of an individual. Development is more related to qualitative aspect and difficult to measure for instance, mental ability, academic achievement, etc. The limits of the growth are set by the heredity of an individual. Development is more affected by the environment available to the person.