Is development solely driven by genetics?

Development is a complex interplay between genetics and environmental factors. While genetics provides the biological foundation for development, environmental influences such as nutrition, culture, education, and social interactions play significant roles in shaping an individual's growth and development.

For instance, while genetic predisposition can dictate physical traits or certain health conditions, environmental aspects like access to healthcare, exposure to toxins, and family dynamics can heavily impact a person's overall development, learning capabilities, and emotional well-being. This understanding aligns with the concept of nature versus nurture, which emphasizes that both genetic and environmental factors are crucial in determining developmental outcomes.

In summary, stating that development is influenced by the environment acknowledges the multifaceted nature of growth and the importance of nurturing in addition to genetic endowments. Therefore, recognizing that development is not solely driven by genetics captures the intricate relationship between inherited traits and external influences.