1.1 INTERACTION OF HEREDITY & ENVIRONMENT

Adoption Studies

Research studies that examine how adopted individuals compare to their biological and adoptive families to assess genetic and environmental influences on behavior.

Behavior

Observable actions or responses of individuals, shaped by both hereditary and environmental factors.

Environmental Factors (Nurture)

External influences on behavior and mental processes, such as family, culture, education, and life experiences.

Natural Selection

The process by which traits that enhance survival and reproduction become more common in a population over generations.

Twin Studies

Research that compares identical and fraternal twins to investigate the influence of genetics and environment on behavior and mental processes.

Eugenics

A controversial application of evolutionary principles aimed at selectively promoting or discouraging reproduction among certain populations, often leading to discrimination.

Evolutionary Perspective

A psychological approach that examines how natural selection influences behavior and mental processes to enhance survival and reproduction.

Family Studies

Research examining behavioral and psychological similarities among relatives to understand hereditary influences.

Heredity

The genetic transmission of traits that influence physical, behavioral, and mental characteristics.

Mental Processes

Internal cognitive functions, such as thinking, memory, and problem-solving, shaped by both nature and nurture.