Ap Psychology Unit 1: Biological Bases of Behavior

Unit 1: 1.1

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

Nature & Nurture work together

At conception (birth), genetics determine:

• Eye color

• Body shape

• Sex

• Temperament

Experiences & the environment work upon these characteristics:

• Culture

• Social groups

• Norms

• Family

Epigenetics- the study of how the environment & other factors can change the way that genes are expressed and may influence behaviors, personality traits, and mental health outcomes in individuals.

Long-term potentiation (LTP)- the ability of our neurons to activate when we recall information that we have previously learned

Summary:

• Nature vs. Nurture: The ongoing debate regarding the relative contributions of genetic inheritance (nature) and environmental factors (nurture) in shaping behavior and psychological traits. This complex interaction highlights the importance of considering both hereditary and experiential influences on human development. Both epigenetics and LTP underscore how our biology and experiences intertwine to impact our cognitive functions and behaviors. By understanding this interplay, we can better appreciate how early life experiences and genetic predispositions work together to affect learning, memory retention, and emotional responses. Additionally, the study of behaviorism emphasizes the role of environmental stimuli in shaping behavior, suggesting that learning is significantly influenced by external factors rather than just internal mechanisms.