Genetics and Environmental Influences on Behavior

These flashcards cover key concepts discussed in the lecture on the genetic factors influencing behavior, including the roles of SNPs, polymorphisms, and epigenetics, as well as the impact of environment on genetic expression.

Polymorphism

The presence of two or more genetically different alleles at a locus in a population.

Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP)

A variation at a single position in a DNA sequence among individuals.

Alleles

Different forms of a gene that can exist at a single locus.

Polygenic traits

Traits that are influenced by multiple genes.

Epigenetics

The study of heritable changes in gene expression that do not involve changes to the underlying DNA sequence.

Polygenic risk score

A score that estimates the risk of developing a trait or condition based on the cumulative effect of multiple genetic variants.

GWAS (Genome-Wide Association Studies)

A method used to scan genomes from many people to find genetic variations associated with a particular disease.

Critical period

A specific time during development when certain experiences must occur for proper growth.

Serotonin receptor

A type of protein that binds serotonin and mediates its effects on psychological functions.

Neurodevelopmental disorder

A disorder that affects the development of the nervous system, often impacting cognitive function, behavior, and social skills.