Ap Psychology Unit 1: Biological Bases of Behavior

Nature vs. Nurture

The debate surrounding the influence of genetic inheritance versus environmental factors on human development and behavior.

Nature

Refers to genetics, inherited traits, and biological factors that determine aspects like eye color, body shape, sex, and temperament.

Nurture

Refers to environmental factors, learned behaviors, culture, social groups, and norms that influence human development.

Epigenetics

The study of how the environment and other factors can change the way genes are expressed, influencing behaviors, personality traits, and mental health.

Long-term potentiation (LTP)

The ability of neurons to activate when recalling previously learned information.

Noam Chomsky (LAD)

A linguist who proposed the concept of the Language Acquisition Device, emphasizing innate biological factors in learning language.

John B. Watson (Behaviorism)

A psychologist who argued that behavior is largely shaped by environmental stimuli, emphasizing nurture over nature.

Interaction of Nature & Nurture

Both genetic and environmental factors work together to shape human development and behavior.

Cognitive Functions

Processes like learning, memory retention, and emotional responses that are influenced by both genetic predispositions and life experiences.

Behaviorism

A psychological perspective that focuses on observable behaviors and the effects of environmental stimuli.