Physical Environmental Factors in Child Development

Children at the early stages of development are like sponges. They soak in the world around them and formulate their own values and beliefs for life. A positive physical environment nurtures children and encourages academic success. However, some children are subject to dangerous physical environments with abuse and neglect. The consequences of both environments are evident in the child̵7;s overall physical and emotional development.

  1. School

    • The early learning environment is important in a child̵7;s development. Children at the preschool and elementary level are building an academic foundation for their future. The physical learning environment should be safe, comfortable, nurturing and positive. The American Journal of Psychiatry conducted an antiviolence program study of an elementary school over four years. There was no tolerance for bullying; discipline and academic achievement were enforced. Another school was offered none of these standards for four years. The school enforced with rules and a safe environment showed increased scores academically and a reduction in discipline issues.

    Poverty

    • Poverty has detrimental effects on a child's IQ and school achievement, according to Duke University psychologist Vonnie C. McLoyd. Children facing a socioeconomic disadvantage show weak academic-readiness skills. Teachers might also have lower expectations for children who come from a poverty situation at home, according to McLoyd. Children from lower socioeconomic lifestyles have risks in physical development as well. These children show higher rates of pre-birth complications and increased lead exposure, which affect their cognitive brain functions during childhood.

    Family

    • The nature versus nurture debate considers whether children are a product of their home environment. The child̵7;s immediate family environment shapes a sense of stability, self-worth and worldview. Research from the United Nations University states that the best home environment for a child is one that helps meet the basic needs for health and safety. Homes with a positive emotional climate produce children who trust others. A positive family environment provides consistency for strong childhood development.

    Child Abuse

    • A negative physical environment can have harmful effects on a child̵7;s development mentally and physically. The mistreatment of children can occur in any religious, socioeconomic or racial group. Domestic violence, drug use, social isolation and verbal abuse are factors that influence childhood development. Children who live in violent homes and witness domestic abuse can fall victim physically and emotionally. Child-welfare.gov states that in 30 to 60 percent of homes where spousal abuse takes place, child abuse also occurs.

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