Why is the prenatal period the most crucial period in development?

1.	Why is the prenatal period the most crucial period in development?
Answer» A period between conception till birth is called a prenatal period. It is the most crucial period in development due to the following factors: Heredity serves as the foundation for later development. Favourable conditions in the mother’s womb can foster the development of hereditary potentials while unfavourable conditions can block their development. Sex determination takes place during the first three months of life. Proportionally faster growth and development take place during the prenatal period as compared to an individual’s entire life. Failure to take proper care of the mother may lead to physical and psychological hazards to the unborn child

Answer»

A period between conception till birth is called a prenatal period. It is the most crucial period in development due to the following factors:

Heredity serves as the foundation for later development.
Favourable conditions in the mother’s womb can foster the development of hereditary potentials while unfavourable conditions can block their development.
Sex determination takes place during the first three months of life.
Proportionally faster growth and development take place during the prenatal period as compared to an individual’s entire life.
Failure to take proper care of the mother may lead to physical and psychological hazards to the unborn child

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