2400 - Nature, Nurture, and The Developmental Perspective

Genetic Expression

The process of using genetic information to produce proteins, influenced by environmental factors.

Genetic Mutations

Changes in the DNA sequence that may be inherited or caused by environmental factors.

Pleiotropy

A single gene influences multiple traits or behaviors.

Behavioral Genetics

Studies the influence of genetics and environment on behaviors.

Heritability

A statistic indicating the proportion of variability in a trait due to genetics.

Epigenetics

The study of how environmental factors affect gene expression without altering the DNA sequence.

Gene-Environment Correlations

Relationships between genetic predispositions and environmental influences.

Passive Correlation

Genetic predispositions create supportive environments for gene expression.

Evocative Correlation

Genetic traits evoke specific responses from the environment.

Active (Niche-Building) Correlation

Individuals seek environments that match their genetic tendencies.

Polymorphisms

Represent the genetic diversity within a population. Often do not affect the function of genes, but some can influence traits, susceptibility to diseases, or how individuals respond to medications.

Type of Gene Regions

Non-Coding Regions and Coding Regions

Non-Coding Regions

parts of the DNA that do not code for proteins. An example is the promoter region, which acts like an “on/off” switch to control when and where genes are expressed. These regions can be influenced by environmental factors, affecting how genes are turned on or of

Coding Regions

parts of the DNA that contain the instructions for making specific proteins. They directly determine the structure and function of proteins in the body

Twin Studies

Twin studies compare identical (monozygotic) and fraternal (dizygotic) twins to understand the influence of genetics and environment on traits and behaviors