Nature vs Nurture --> Reflexes

Nature vs. Nurture

The debate over whether human traits are primarily shaped by genetics (nature) or environment and experience (nurture).

Natural Selection

The evolutionary process where traits that aid survival and reproduction are more likely to be passed on.

Evolutionary Psychology

The study of how natural selection shaped behavior and mental processes over time.

Mutations

Random genetic changes that may result in new traits, sometimes beneficial for survival.

Behavior Genetics

The study of how genes and environment influence differences in behavior.

Environment

Every external influence, from prenatal nutrition to social surroundings.

Heredity

The genetic transfer of traits from parents to offspring.

Genes

Units of heredity made of DNA that influence development and traits.

Genome

The complete set of genetic instructions for an organism.

seperated twins

Twins who develop from separate eggs; genetically no closer than siblings. They share about 50% of their DNA, similar to regular siblings.

Identical Twins

Twins who develop from a single fertilized egg, genetically identical.

Thomas Bouchard

Psychologist known for studying identical twins raised apart to explore nature vs. nurture.

Biological vs. Adoptive Relatives

Comparing traits between genetic relatives and adoptive relatives helps reveal the roles of genes vs. environment.

Gene–Environment Interaction

When the effects of genes depend on the environment, and vice versa.

Epigenetics

The study of how environmental factors can turn genes on or off without changing DNA.

Nervous System

The body’s communication network, consisting of all nerve cells.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

The brain and spinal cord; the body’s decision-making system.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

The network of sensory and motor neurons connecting the CNS to the body.

Nerves

Bundles of axons that carry signals in the PNS.

Sensory Neurons (Afferent)

Neurons that carry incoming information from sense receptors to the CNS.

Motor Neurons (Efferent)

Neurons that carry outgoing information from the CNS to muscles and glands.

Interneurons

Neurons within the CNS that connect sensory and motor neurons.

Somatic Nervous System

Controls voluntary muscle movements.

Autonomic Nervous System

Controls involuntary body functions (e.g., heartbeat, digestion).

Sympathetic Nervous System

Arouses the body for action (fight-or-flight).

Parasympathetic Nervous System

Calms the body and conserves energy (rest-and-digest).

Reflexes (Reflex Arc)

Automatic, simple responses to sensory stimuli, bypassing the brain.

seperated twins

Studies examining the influence of genetics and environment on behavior and personality. These studies often involve twins raised apart to compare similarities and differences in their outcomes.