Nature vs. Nurture in Psychology

Flashcards about the concepts of nature versus nurture.

What does 'nature' refer to in the context of the nature versus nurture debate?

Genetics and biology from the inside out, influencing who we are.

What does 'nurture' encompass in the context of the nature versus nurture debate?

An environment, learning, conditioning, and rewards or punishments that shape behaviors.

Who proposed that language acquisition is influenced by a 'universal grammar'?

Noam Chomsky

Which behaviorist famously claimed he could train any infant to become any type of specialist, regardless of their talents or ancestry?

John B. Watson

How do nature and nurture interact to influence human traits and characteristics?

They work together like two hands clapping.

What is epigenetics?

The study of how the environment can alter our genetic expression.

In studies with rats, what effect did the licking behavior of mother rats have on the genes of their offspring?

Care received from mothers physically altered their genetic expression.

What is long-term potentiation (LTP)?

Increased ability of neurons to activate when recalling learned information.

According to epigenetic research, how can nurture impact nature?

Changes in behaviors, habits, and environment can change genetic expression.

What is the licking behavior in rats?

Mother rats who lick their babies are caring and nurturing