2-4-Behavioral Genetics

These flashcards cover key concepts in behavioral genetics, focusing on genetic influences on behavior, twin and adoption studies, and the implications of genetic relatedness.

Twin Studies

Research studies that compare the behavior and traits of identical (monozygotic) and fraternal (dizygotic) twins to determine the influence of genetics versus environment.

Monozygotic Twins (MZ)

Identical twins that develop from a single fertilized egg, sharing 100% of their genetic material.

Dizygotic Twins (DZ)

Fraternal twins that develop from two separate eggs fertilized by two separate sperm, sharing approximately 50% of their genetic material.

Genetic Relatedness

A measure of the degree of genetic similarity between individuals, often expressed as a percentage.

Inbreeding

Breeding between closely related individuals, which can increase the risk of genetic defects.

Schizophrenia Risk

The likelihood of developing schizophrenia that increases with genetic relatedness among individuals.

Equal Environments Assumption

The assumption that identical and fraternal twins raised in the same household are exposed to similar environmental conditions.

Adoption Studies

Research studies that compare the behavior of adopted individuals with their biological and adoptive families to assess genetic and environmental influences.

Non-Shared Environment

Environmental influences that are not shared between individuals, which can contribute to differences in traits or behaviors.

Quantitative Genetics

The study of the inheritance of traits that are determined by multiple genes and their interaction with environmental factors.