Unit 3C Genetics, Evolutionary Psychology, And Behavior Flashcards
Behavior genetics
The study of the relative power and limits of genetic and environmental influences on behavior
Environment
Every nongenetic influence, from prenatal nutrition to the people and things around us
Chromosomes
They are threadlike structure made of DNA molecules that contain the genes, we have 46 of them (23 from each parent).
DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid)
A complex molecule containing the genetic information that makes up the chromosomes
Genes
The biochemical units of heredity that make up the chromosomes; segments of DNA capable of synthesizing a protein
Genomes
The complete instructions for making an organism, consisting of all the genetic material in that organisms chromosomes.
Heritability
It is the proportion of variation among individuals that we can attribute to genes.
Interaction
The interplay that occurs when the effect of one factor depends on another factor.
How do genes and environment (nature and nurture) work together?
Genes are self-regulating, because instead of acting as blue prints that lead to the same result, no matter what, genes react depending on their environment.
Molecular genetics
The sun field of biology that studies the molecular structure and function of genes
Evolutionary psychologists
To study the evolution of behavior and the mind, using principles of natural selection
Natural selection
The principle that, among the range of inherited trait variations, those that lead to increased reproduction and survival will most likely be passed on to succeeding generations.
Mutations
Random errors in gene replication that lead to change
What do men look for in women?
Men look for women who have a youthful shape, because it suggests that they have many childbearing years to come.
What do women look for in men?
Women prefer men who are mature, dominant, bold, an affluent, because they want someone who can support and protect their family.
