Chapter VI: Physical Growth from Birth to Maturity

Abstract

IN THIS REVIEW investigations have been selected which seem to represent the present emphasis both as to areas studied and methods or technics used. The Curve of GrowthThe present emphasis seems to be not so much the establishment and comparison of group growth curves, but rather the establishment and analysis of individual growth curves from well-planned, carefully controlled long-time studies of large numbers of individuals. Wolff (54,55) in the Hagerstown, Maryland, study made yearly measurements from 1937 to 1940 of a large group of girls and boys. He concluded that it is not so much sex differences but growing height which determines weight. None of the three indexes used remained constant over the whole growth period. He concluded that growth cannot be measured by the same heightweight ratio at different ages.Wolff (55) also discussed the tendency for recent child population groups to show an increase in weight. He noted smaller families as a possible explanation; also that, in Washington County, higher socio-economic groups since 1920 have contributed a larger proportion of children than in former years.Robinow (40) established norms for the variability of weight and height increments from birth to six years of age. Since no sex differences were present he combined the data into one set of norms. During the first year of life the ratio of growth decreased rapidly and height was less variable than weight as regards increments.Vickers and Stuart (47) have recognized the relation of body size, proportions, and rate of growth to physical health and fitness, and have pointed out the importance of periodic observations to prevent retardation. They suggested three measurements: (a) body weight, (b) height (recumbent length), and (c) breadth of chest and pelvis (recumbent) as being most useful to the pediatrician.