Can environmental factors influence the development of an individual?

Environmental factors play a crucial role in the development of an individual, affecting various aspects, including physical health, cognitive skills, emotional well-being, and social behaviors. The concept of nature versus nurture highlights that while genetics provide a foundation, environmental influences can shape how that genetic potential is expressed. For instance, an individual's upbringing, educational opportunities, socio-economic status, cultural background, and life experiences can significantly contribute to their overall development.

When considering why the other responses do not align with the correct answer, it’s important to note that suggesting environmental factors have no influence at all overlooks substantial evidence from developmental psychology, sociology, and health studies. Additionally, claiming environmental impact is limited to childhood disregards the ongoing effects of environment throughout a person’s life, including the adulthood and elderly stages. The notion that it "depends on heredity" fails to recognize the interaction between genetics and environment, as both work dynamically throughout an individual's life to shape development.