Growth arcs refer to the progression of a character's development throughout a story. They illustrate how characters evolve in response to challenges, experiences, and relationships. A well-defined growth arc can enhance the narrative by showing how characters learn, adapt, and change over time. In literature and film, growth arcs often follow a structure where characters start in one state, face obstacles, and ultimately reach a new understanding or perspective. This concept is commonly seen in various genres, including young adult fiction, fantasy, and drama, where protagonists undergo significant transformations that resonate with audiences.