Nature Vs. Nurture

One of the most frequently debated theories of child development is Nature vs. Nurture. The "nature" proponents advise that biological inheritance and predisposition influence development the most, while "nurture" proponents claim that environment factors and experiences have the most influence over development. 

I, and many other development researchers/theorists, believe that development stems from a mixture of both nature AND nurture. An individual's inherited traits and personal experiences will mold and shape his/her physical and mental abilities. For example, American professional racing cyclist Taylor Phinney has won many gold medals in short races and time trials. His parents are both professional cyclists. However, Lance Armstrong, American professional racing cyclist (winner of 7 straight Tour de France titles, but later stripped of victories) does not have cycling in his blood. His mother is a secretary and his father is the route manager for The Dallas Morning News. 

Both men have achieved greatness in their fields, yet they come from different backgrounds, thus indicating that nurture plays a major role in development.

But not all development comes from nurture. Sometimes genetics determine certain aspects of development. For example, genetics provide the basis for cell growth and maturation. Humans crawl before they walk, say one word before complete sentences, and adolescences go through puberty at around the same general age range.