Theories of Growth and Development

Theories of growth and development in the medical field focus on how individuals mature physically, cognitively, and psychologically. Erikson’s theory explores stages of psychosocial challenges influencing personality. Piaget’s theory describes how children progress through stages of cognitive complexity. Freud’s theory links personality development to stages of psychosexual energy. Gesell’s theory emphasizes biological maturation as a driver of development, unfolding in a natural sequence. Bronfenbrenner’s theory examines the influence of environmental systems on a child's development, from immediate settings to broader societal contexts. These theories provide insights into the multifaceted nature of human growth.