CAS PS 101 Lecture 11: Human Development

• School: Boston University
• Department: Psychological & Brain Sciences
• Course: CAS PS 101
• Professor: Robert Reinhart

Document Summary

Genes ( nature ) and environment ( nurture ) are the two factors that combine to shape human development. The two factors must be observed together in order to understand human development. Genetics are the blueprints for the makings of an organism. Asses the degree to which phenotypic (behavioral) traits are inherited. Compare the similarities between identical and fraternal twins to determine genetic basis. There is often greater similarity between monozygotic (identical twins) likely due to their genetic influence. Caspi et al. (2002) followed more than 1,000 new zealanders from birth until adulthood. Mistreatment at home and low mao gene accounted for nearly 50% of criminality. Hormones circulate in the womb and influence the developing fetus. If the mother"s thyroid does not produce sufficient amounts of hormones, the fetus is at risk for lower iq and diminished intellectual development. Emotional state of the mother can also affect the developing fetus.