2.3: The nature-nurture debate

Question 1

What is meant by the ‘nature-nurture debate’ in psychology? (2 marks)

Answer 1

The nature-nurture debate in psychology is the possibility that behaviour is governed by nature (genes etc) and by nurture (eg environment, experiences etc) and reference to the debate being about the relative contribution of each of these influences

Question 2

Researchers used a test to measure the mathematical reasoning ability of pairs of identical and non-identical twins. If both members of a pair had a similar score on
the test, they were said to be ‘concordant’. This type of study is known as a concordance study.

Outcome of the research with the concordance rates expressed as a percentage:
The concordance rate for mathematical reasoning ability for the genetic relationship group of identical twins (100% shared genes) was 58%.
The concordance rate for mathematical reasoning ability for the genetic relationship group of non-identical twins (50% shared genes) was 14%.

Briefly explain the outcome of the study in relation to the nature-nurture debate (2 marks)

Answer 2

It appears to support the nature side of the debate, because the concordance rate is stronger in the identical twins where there is greater genetic relatedness (or nurture must also play a role – not 100% concordance)

Question 3

Extract from a newspaper article:
Coping with Life’s Pressures.
Depression often runs in families, but many depressed people have serious social problems or have experienced traumatic events in the past. However,
many people find ways to cope. What we need is the will to overcome our problems.
With reference to the item above, identify one influence of nature on our behaviour and one influence of nurture on our behaviour (2 marks)

Answer 3

1. Nature is indicated by reference to genetic inheritance ‘runs in families’
2. Nurture is indicated by reference to environment or experience ‘serious social problems’, ‘traumatic events in the past’