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Maturation Theory (Arnold Gesell)

Gesell's Maturation Theory focused on the physical and mental development of children. He suggested that children will go through the same stages of development, in the same sequence but each child will go through the stages at their own rate. He suggested that patterns of development are determined by the individual’s heredity.

Here's a breakdown of Arnold Gesell's Maturation Theory:

  • Development occurs in a predictable, orderly sequence.
  • Developmental milestones are largely biologically driven and occur at a similar rate in most children.
  • Environments play a limited role in development, as children will naturally progress through stages of development regardless of their environment.
  • Development is largely predetermined, with genetics and biology playing a significant role.
  • Children progress through stages of development at a similar rate, regardless of their background or individual differences.

Gesell's theory is not as widely accepted as it once was, as it has been criticized for failing to consider the role of environment and experience in shaping development.

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