Question

Differentiate between growth and development.

Hint:

Remember: Growth is part of Development. All growth is development, but not all development is growth (e.g., learning a new language is development but not physical growth).

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Growth and development are fundamental concepts in psychology that describe human changes over time.
Growth refers specifically to physical and measurable changes, whereas development is a broader term encompassing functional, structural, and behavioral improvements.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The key differences can be structured as follows:
1. Nature of Change: Growth is purely quantitative (increase in size, weight, or height).
Development is qualitative (improvement in functioning) as well as quantitative.
2. Scope: Growth is a subset of development; it is limited to physical aspects.
Development is comprehensive, including physical, mental, social, and emotional aspects.
3. Duration: Growth stops when maturity is attained (usually after adolescence).
Development is a continuous process that occurs from conception until death.
4. Measurement: Growth is easily observable and measurable using scales or tapes.
Development is complex to measure and is usually assessed through observation of behavior and skill acquisition.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Growth represents the "how much" (size), while development represents the "how well" (maturity and complexity) of an individual.