Lesson 1: Growth and Development

Human growth and development is a process that begins at birth and does not end until death. During all stages of growth and development, individuals have needs that must be met. A healthcare worker must be aware of the various life stages and of individual needs in order to provide quality healthcare.

Life stages

Even though individuals differ greatly, each person passes through certain stages of growth and development from birth to death. These stages are frequently called life stages. A common method of classifying life stages is as follows:

Flow Chart of Life Stages, full description linked below.

See description of diagram

As individuals pass through these life stages, the four main types of growth and development occur: physical, mental, emotional, and social. Physical refers to body growth and includes height and weight changes, muscle and nerve development, and changes in body organs. Intellectual/Cognitive (also called mental) refers to the development of the mind and includes learning how to solve problems, make judgments, and deal with situations. Psycho/Emotional refers to feelings and includes dealing with love, hate, joy, fear, excitement, and other similar feelings. Social refers to interactions and relationships with other people.

Each stage of growth and development has its own characteristics and specific developmental tasks that an individual must master. These tasks progress from simple to more complex. Each stage establishes the foundation for the next stage. Growth and development proceed in an orderly pattern. However, the rate of progress varies among individuals.

Each life stage creates certain needs in individuals. Other factors can also affect life stages and needs. An individual's gender, race, and heredity can influence needs. Injury or illness usually has a negative effect and can change needs or impair development.

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