Key Theme 3: Nature v Nurture

Question 1

How do some Classic Studies investigate the NATURE / NURTURE DEBATE

Answer 1

Watson and Rayner
o Nature: Evolutionary view of innate emotions (eg. fear), Individual drives etc.
o Nurture (WR): Classical conditioning of emotions and behaviourism

Jensen
o Nature: There is a genetic aspect to intelligence and performance
o Nurture: We can provide resources to give those with lower genetic possibilities a ‘head start’ (eg. Head Start Program)

Harlow and Harlow:
o Nature: Food source = parent
o Nurture: Nurture is at least as important for infant health as nature (food)