ABSTRACT

Genetic and biological factors, familial relationships, and social and environmental influences all play important roles in child development. These factors have interactive effects that impact growth at the same time as they influence each other. Understanding how each of these factors plays a role in the development and growth of children is essential. Throughout this chapter, we cover the various factors that impact and influence children’s well-being, including developmental milestones and risk and protective factors, and we provide a brief overview of common childhood behavioral illnesses that may impact children up to 12 years of age.