Biological and Environmental Foundations

Question 1

What is dominant genetic inheritance

Answer 1

Some genes are dominant and are always expresses, regardless of the gene it is paired with (e.g. dark hair over light hair)

(when an individual is heterozugous for a particular trait, the dominant gene is expressed)

Question 2

What is recessive genetic inheritance

Answer 2

Some genes are recessive and will only be expressed if paired with another recessive gene (creating dominance)

Question 3

Gene-environment interactions : Range of reaction (hint : has to do with environment)

Answer 3

Wide range of potential expressions of genetic traits, depending on environmental opportunities and constraints

Question 4

Gene-environment interactions : Canalization

Answer 4

Heredity narrows range of development to only one or possibly a few outcomes

Question 5

Maternal Characteristics and Behaviours : Age (3)

Answer 5

1. Women are becoming pregnant later than ever.
2. +35 –> greater birth complications
3. greater age, greater likelihood for down syndrome

Question 6

Maternal Characteristics and Behaviours : Nutrition (3)

Answer 6

1. Many mothers lack access to proper nutrition
2. lack of proper nutrition –> greater pregnancy risks

Question 7

Maternal Characteristics and Behaviours : Emotional Well-Being (3)

Answer 7

1. Exposure to chronic stress –> severe risks for fetus
2. Stress CAN raise the fetus’ heat rate + act. level
3. Stress can create symptoms of anxiety and ADHD

Question 8

Maternal Characteristics and Behaviours : Prenatal Care (3)

Answer 8

1. Disparities of care in low SES and ethnicity
2. Lack of health insurance –> avoidance of care
3. Inadequate prenatal care –> low birth rate, preterm birth, infant mortality