Chapter 3: Genetics, Evolution, and Behavioral Psychology

What is the nature/nurture debate in psychology?

It concerns the relative contributions of genes and experience to the development of psychological traits and behaviors.

How many chromosomes do humans have?

46 chromosomes, with 23 from each parent.

What are nucleotides?

Links that connect the two chains of the DNA double helix.

What is the base pairing rule in DNA?

Adenine (A) pairs with Thymine (T) and Cytosine (C) pairs with Guanine (G).

What are genes?

Segments of nucleotide sequences that create proteins determining the structure and function of the body.

What is DNA replication?

The process by which genes are copied from one generation of cells to the next.

What are mutations?

Mistakes in DNA replication that can occur frequently, usually resulting in cell death but occasionally improving cell function.

What is natural selection?

The principle that inherited trait variations contributing to survival are more likely to be passed on to succeeding generations.

What is evolutionary psychology?

A branch of psychology that uses Darwin's principles to understand the evolution of the mind and behavior.

Why might phobias of spiders be more common than phobias of guns?

Phobias may be a product of evolutionary history, where avoiding spiders and snakes increased survival chances.

What are some biological differences between men and women?

Men reach puberty later, are more likely to be colorblind, die earlier, and commit more suicides; women are more likely to suffer depression and eating disorders.

What cognitive differences exist between genders?

Girls tend to excel in spelling, while boys are better at math and spatial reasoning.

How do men and women differ in social connectedness?

Men prefer independence, while women are better connected to others.

What is the trend regarding aggression between genders?

Men are more physically aggressive and are significantly more likely to commit murder.

How do men and women differ in leadership styles?

Men are often perceived as more dominant and tend to be bossy leaders, while women are more democratic.

What are men's tendencies regarding sexual activity?

Men are more likely to initiate sexual activity, respond to visual stimuli, and accept casual sex.

What is the evolutionary psychology explanation for sexual differences?

Men and women have competing sexual strategies based on reproductive roles; women seek long-term relationships while men pursue multiple short-term partners.

How do women and men present themselves in singles ads?

Women often emphasize attractiveness and seek status, while men highlight financial success and seek good looks.

What is a criticism of evolutionary psychology?

It can commit hindsight bias by explaining known differences without being able to predict them.