AP psych - evolutionary perspective

Sweetness

A universally liked trait in nature, as nothing sweet is also poisonous.

Aggression

A trait that may have been favorable for survival in the past but can be maladaptive now.

Chromosomes

Structures containing genes, with humans having 46 chromosomes (23 from each parent).

DNA

The genetic information that makes up an organism.

Genes

Small segments of chromosomes that carry genetic information.

Genomes

The complete set of instructions for making an organism.

Heritability

The proportion of variation among individuals attributed to genetic factors.

Interaction

The effect of one factor (like environment) depending on another factor (like heredity).

Environment

All non-genetic influences affecting an individual, from prenatal nutrition to social surroundings.

Epigenetics

The study of how environmental factors can alter genetic expression.

High lick mother rats

A study showing that a stimulating environment improves memory capacity in both rats and their offspring.

Identical Twins

Also known as monozygotic twins, they originate from a single fertilized egg and share 100% genetic similarity.

Fraternal Twins

Also known as dizygotic twins, they develop from two separate eggs and share about 50% genetic similarity.

Behavioral Similarities

Identical twins are more likely to share similar disorders and behaviors compared to fraternal twins.

Twin Studies

Research showing that identical twins raised together have the most similar IQ test scores.

Adoption Studies

Findings that adopted children resemble their biological parents more than their adoptive parents, especially in personality.

Nervous System

The system that coordinates actions and sensory information, divided into central and peripheral systems.

Central Nervous System

Comprises the brain and spinal cord, responsible for decision-making.

Peripheral Nervous System

Includes all other nerves, transmitting information between the CNS and the body.

Somatic Nervous System

Controls voluntary movements of skeletal muscles.

Autonomic Nervous System

Regulates involuntary functions of internal organs and glands.

Sympathetic Nervous System

Part of the autonomic system that arouses energy and triggers the "fight or flight" response.

Parasympathetic Nervous System

Calms the body down, promoting "rest and digest" functions.