What is the totality of environmental factors that influence the development and behavior of a person referred to as?

The totality of environmental factors that influence the development and behavior of a person is referred to as "nurture." This term encompasses all external conditions and influences, including upbringing, culture, education, and life experiences that shape an individual, distinguishing it from the genetic predispositions one inherits, which are encompassed by the term "nature."

The concept of nurture is integral to understanding how behavior and development can vary greatly among individuals who may share similar genetic backgrounds but have experienced different environmental contexts. This perspective is central to debates in psychology and developmental science, emphasizing the importance of environmental input in shaping cognitive and emotional outcomes.

By examining both nurture and nature, as well as their interactions, researchers and practitioners can gain a more holistic understanding of human behavior and development.