What does the Wear and Tear theory primarily focus on?

The Wear and Tear theory primarily focuses on the concept that the body undergoes cumulative damage and physical stress over time, leading to aging and eventual decline in function. This theory posits that as individuals age, their cells and tissues experience continual deterioration due to environmental factors, lifestyle choices, and normal biological processes. The accumulation of damage, particularly at the cellular level, contributes to the aging process and the onset of various age-related diseases.

In this context, the emphasis on physical stress and damage aligns with observations in biology, where repeated physical and physiological stress can lead to wear on the body's systems. For instance, overuse injuries, the gradual decline of organ function, and the physiological effects of chronic diseases highlight how the physical wear and tear impacts health as one ages. This perspective contrasts with theories that emphasize genetic factors or psychosocial influences as primary determinants of aging, as the Wear and Tear theory specifically points to the observable physical changes and stresses experienced throughout life.