Unit 1: Biological Bases of Behavior

A collection of vocabulary flashcards based on key concepts from Unit 1 on Biological Bases of Behavior, focusing on heredity and environment.

Psychology

The science of behavior and mental processes.

Nature vs. Nurture

A debate concerning whether genetics (nature) or environment (nurture) is more influential in determining behavior and traits.

Evolutionary Psychology

The study of the evolution of human behavior and the mind, using principles of natural selection.

Natural Selection

Inherited traits that enable an organism to survive and reproduce will most likely be passed on to succeeding generations.

Genetics

The study of heredity and the variation of inherited characteristics.

Heredity

The genetic transfer of characteristics from parent to offspring.

Biopsychologists

Researchers who study biological processes affecting behavior in humans and animals.

Epigenetics

The study of how environmental influences can affect gene expression without altering DNA.

Identical Twins

Twins who developed from a single fertilized egg, thus they are genetically identical.

Fraternal Twins

Twins who developed from separate fertilized eggs and are genetically no more similar than other siblings.

Eugenics

The study aimed at arranging reproduction within a human population to increase the occurrence of 'desirable' heritable characteristics.

Adoption Studies

Research examining individuals raised by adoptive parents compared to their biological parents to understand the influence of genetics and environment.

Twin Studies

Research focused on identifying the contributions of genetics and environment to human behavior by studying twins.

Epigenetic Modification

Changes in gene expression that occur without changing the DNA sequence.

Prenatal Influences

Factors affecting development before birth, such as drugs, toxins, and nutrition.

Developmental Stages

Different life stages such as early childhood, juvenile, and adulthood that influence behavior and personality.