Liking and understanding growth (12)
I believe the answer is:
appreciation
I believe this clue is a triple definition!
'liking' is the first definition.
(thesaurus)
'and' is a link.
'understanding' is the second definition.
(appreciation is a kind of understanding)
'growth' is the third definition.
(thesaurus)
(Other definitions for appreciation that I've seen before include "Rise" , "An expression of gratitude" , "It is shown by applause" , "Gratitude; increase in value" , "recognition" .)