Heredity, nature vs. nurture, and research

Term Definition

Heredity

The passing of genetic traits from parents to offspring.

Nature

The influence of genes and biological factors on behavior and development.

Nurture

The influence of environment, experiences, learning, and upbringing on behavior.

Genetic predisposition

An inherited tendency that makes someone more likely to develop a trait or condition, but does not guarantee it.

Evolutionary perspective

Explains behavior and mental processes as adaptations that may have helped our ancestors survive and reproduce.

Natural selection

The process in which inherited traits that improve survival or reproduction become more common over generations.

Eugenics

The discredited and unethical movement to control human reproduction in an attempt to influence inherited traits.

Twin studies

Research comparing identical and fraternal twins to help estimate genetic and environmental influences.

Family studies

Research examining how traits or disorders occur among biological relatives to investigate genetic influences.

Adoption studies

Research comparing adopted individuals with their biological and adoptive relatives to help separate genetic and environmental influences.