Review/Module 7: Genetics, Evolutionary Psychology, & Behavior AND Module 9: Sleep & Dreams (Tues 09/23/25) Class 5

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to genetics, evolutionary psychology, and behavior as discussed in the Exploring Psychology course.

Behavior Genetics

The study of the relative power and limits of genetic and environmental influences on behavior.

Chromosomes

Threadlike structures made of DNA molecules that contain genes.

DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid)

Complex molecule containing genetic information that makes up the chromosomes.

Genome

Complete instructions for making an organism, consisting of all the genetic material in that organism’s chromosomes.

Environment

Every non-genetic influence around us.

Heredity

Genetic transfer of characteristics from parents to offspring.

Identical Twins (Monozygotic Twins)

Twins who share 100% of their genes.

Fraternal Twins (Dizygotic Twins)

Twins who share 50% of their genes.

Polygenic Traits

Traits influenced by many genes.

Gene–Environment Interaction

The interaction where environments trigger gene activity.

Adoption Studies

Research that examines the similarities between adopted children and their biological and adoptive relatives.

Epigenetic Marks

Chemical modifications that affect gene expression without altering the DNA sequence.

Evolutionary Psychology

The study of how evolutionary principles affect human behavior and mental processes.

Natural Selection

The process by which organisms with favorable traits are more likely to survive and reproduce.

Second Darwinian Revolution

The application of evolutionary principles to psychology.

Genetic Legacy

The history of genetic traits passed down through generations.