Unit 2 Terms- Behavioral Genetics

Question 1

Nature and Nurture

Answer 1

Are we product of our environment (Nurture) or our genes (Nature)?

• studies using twin studies

Question 2

Epigenetics

Answer 2

• Our environment can “turn on” or “turn off” gene expression

ex- having the gene for mental illness but it isn’t expressed until placed in a dysfunctional environment

Question 3

Identical vs Fraternal Twins
(twin studies)

Answer 3

• Identical twins have same genetic makeup and same environment vs fraternal twins have similar genetic makeup and same environment
• differences between group showcase greater role of nature (genetics)

Question 4

Separated Identical Twins
(twin studies)

Answer 4

• same genetic makeup w/ same environment vs same genetic makeup w/ different environment
• differences in two groups relate to greater role of nurture (environment)

Question 5

Adopted Child Studies

Answer 5

• is the child more like their biological parents or their adoptive parents
• adoptive = nurture and biological = nature

Question 6

Heritability

Answer 6

• Measure of how much variation of a population is due to genetic differences
• expressed as # between 0-1 (1= more due to genetics)

Question 7

Natural Selection

Answer 7

Traits that were useful for our ancestors were chosen to be passed down and continued

Question 8

Outdated Tendencies

Answer 8

• Something that was useful for our ancestors not really being needed anymore today

The preference we have for sweet/fatty foods was useful for ancestors but now we have easy access to such foods (therefore it is not needed and outdated)