Edu 235 Chapter 4 Test Short Answer - 5 Points Each

Edu 235 Chapter 4 Testshort Answer 5 Points Each

What does “nature versus nurture” mean in relation to human development?

List the causes of obesity in children.

What can caregivers do to help children who have low self-esteem because of size, shape, or weight?

What are the non-chronic health conditions that are prevalent during the school years?

Name the three gross-motor skills that most children have developed during middle childhood. When children further refine gross-motor skills, they can participate in popular activities of childhood. Name the activities.

Please answer the reflective questions with a minimum of 3-5 sentences each.

Why do you think that obesity is a growing problem in the United States?

Reflect on your personal physical development during middle childhood. What encouragement did you have for physical fitness?

Paper For Above instruction

Understanding Human Development and Childhood Physical Growth

The debate between "nature versus nurture" has long been central in understanding human development. This concept explores whether genetics (nature) or environmental influences and experiences (nurture) play a more significant role in shaping an individual's physical, cognitive, and emotional growth. While genetics provide the biological foundation, environmental factors such as diet, education, social interactions, and cultural contexts influence how these genetic potentials are expressed and developed (Rutter, 2012). For example, a child's height may be primarily influenced by genetics, but nutrition and access to healthcare significantly affect whether they reach their genetic height potential. Balancing both aspects helps in understanding how children develop and the importance of supportive environments.

Obesity in children results from a complex interplay of various causes. These include genetic predispositions, such as family history of obesity, which can influence metabolism and fat storage (Williams et al., 2014). Environmental factors like sedentary lifestyles, increased screen time, and lack of physical activity significantly contribute to childhood obesity. Dietary habits, including high consumption of processed foods, sugary beverages, and fast food, also play a critical role. Additionally, socioeconomic factors can influence access to healthy foods and safe areas for physical activity, further exacerbating the issue (Ogden et al., 2015). Understanding these causes helps in developing targeted strategies to prevent and address childhood obesity.

Caregivers can play a vital role in boosting the self-esteem of children who struggle with their size, shape, or weight. They should promote positive body image by focusing on health and abilities rather than appearance. Encouraging children to participate in physical activities they enjoy can foster confidence and a sense of accomplishment (Shrewsbury & Wardle, 2016). Providing nutritious foods without making them feel deprived and avoiding negative comments about weight or body size is crucial. Supportive communication and emphasizing the child's strengths and talents can help build resilience and a healthy self-concept, regardless of physical appearance.

During the school years, children may experience several non-chronic health conditions. Common among these are colds, influenza, and other respiratory infections, which spread easily among children in close-contact environments. Additionally, conditions like ear infections, gastrointestinal illnesses, and vision or dental problems are prevalent. These issues are usually temporary (CDC, 2016). While they are not chronic, they can impact academic performance and social interactions if not properly managed. Regular health check-ups and good hygiene practices are essential in preventing and managing these health concerns.

Most children in middle childhood develop and refine three fundamental gross-motor skills: running, jumping, and throwing. These skills serve as a foundation for more complex activities. As children further refine these skills, they tend to participate in popular childhood activities such as sports (soccer, basketball), dance, cycling, and swimming. These activities not only promote physical health but also help develop social skills, teamwork, and discipline—critical aspects of holistic development during middle childhood (Gallahue & Ozmun, 2012).

Reflecting on the growth and health improvements during middle childhood, I believe that childhood obesity has become a growing concern in the United States due to multiple factors. Sedentary lifestyles driven by increased screen time, sugary snack consumption, and decreased physical activity are significant contributors. Urbanization has limited safe outdoor play areas, making it harder for children to engage in active play. Additionally, societal norms and marketing strategies targeting children often promote unhealthy foods, exacerbating obesity rates. The rise of fast food culture and convenience foods further worsen this trend. These environmental and societal influences collectively contribute to the obesity epidemic, underscoring the need for comprehensive public health initiatives to combat it (Swinburn et al., 2019).

Reflecting on my personal physical development, during middle childhood, I was encouraged to participate in school sports and recreational activities. My parents and teachers emphasized the importance of staying active and eating nutritious foods. They motivated me through praise for my efforts and successes in various physical activities, which fostered a positive attitude toward fitness. This encouragement helped me develop a lifelong appreciation for staying active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Such support was crucial in building my confidence and making physical activity a rewarding part of my life (Pate et al., 2018).

References

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2016). Common childhood illnesses. CDC.
• Gallahue, D. L., & Ozmun, J. C. (2012). Understanding Motor Development: Infants, Children, Adolescents, Adults. McGraw-Hill.
• Ogden, C. L., Carroll, M. D., Fryar, C. D., & Flegal, K. M. (2015). Prevalence of Obesity Among Adults and Youth: United States, 2015–2016. NCHS Data Brief, No. 288.
• Pate, R. R., O'Neill, J. R., & Lobelo, F. (2018). The evolving definition of physical activity. American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, 12(5), 373–377.
• Rutter, M. (2012). Genes and Behavior. Oxford University Press.
• Shrewsbury, V., & Wardle, J. (2016). Body dissatisfaction and unhealthy weight control behaviors in adolescents: The role of family and peers. International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, 13, 43.
• Swinburn, B., Kraak, V., Allender, S., et al. (2019). The global syndemic of obesity, undernutrition, and climate change: The Lancet Commission report. The Lancet, 393(10173), 791–846.
• Williams, J. E., Boland, M., & Russell, S. (2014). Genetics of childhood obesity: Is there a role for epigenetics? Pediatric Clinics of North America, 61(3), 695–707.