We must consider a number of variables that affect human development in our work as Human Service Providers. Nature, nurture environment, genetics, poverty, violence, socio-economic status, and culture are examples of variables we consider as we discuss development through the lifespan. Consider the following questions:

• Which variable do you think has the most impact on a person’s development?
• What are 3 ways the variable you chose impact the issues a client presents with for services?
• How has this variable has impacted your own development?

Instructions:

Write a 2-3 page paper that discusses developmental variables and the impact of these variables on human development.

• Choose 1 variable from this list: Nature, nurture environment, genetics, poverty, violence, socio-economic status, and culture.
• In 2-3 paragraphs, describe and define the variable in detail.
• In 1-2 paragraphs, identify and explain 3 impacts that variable has on an individual’s development.
• In 1-2 paragraphs, reflect on your experience of this variable on your own development or the development of a family member or friend. Keep in mind that impacts on development can be positive or negative depending on the variable.