Biological Bases of Behavior - Notes

Evolutionary Psychology: Nature vs. Nurture

• Nature: Biological heredity and genetic predispositions.
• Nurture: Environmental factors (education, culture, parenting).

Natural Selection

• Traits increasing survival and reproduction are more likely to be passed down.

Evolutionary Psychology

• Examines how evolutionary principles influence behavior and mental processes.

Mutation

• Change in DNA sequence, leading to trait variation.
• Beneficial mutations can be passed on through natural selection.
• Can lead to genetic disorders/diseases.

Environment

• External factors influencing individual development and behavior.
• Includes physical surroundings, social interactions, culture, and experiences.

Heredity

• Passing of traits from parents to offspring through genes.
• Can be influenced by environmental factors.