Chapter 11 Focuses On How Evolutionary Theory Has Affected P

Chapter 11 Focuses On How Evolutionary Theory Has Affected Psychology

Chapter 11 focuses on how evolutionary theory has affected psychology. The implication is that some or even all aspects of behavior could be genetically determined. You will find this familiar as the nature-nurture debate, and the genetic side is the modern version of rationalism. To what degree do you think behavior is genetically determined? Can you cite any examples? Conversely, do you think behavior is learned? And can you cite any examples?

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Chapter 11 Focuses On How Evolutionary Theory Has Affected Psychology

The influence of evolutionary theory on psychology has significantly shaped contemporary understandings of human behavior. This perspective suggests that many behavioral traits may have a genetic basis, having been shaped by natural selection to enhance survival and reproductive success. The ongoing nature versus nurture debate remains central in psychology, reflecting the tension between genetic predispositions and environmental influences in shaping individual behaviors.

The extent to which behavior is genetically determined remains a complex issue. Some behaviors appear to have a strong genetic component, as exemplified by studies on twin and adoption cases. For instance, research indicates that intelligence has a heritable component, with monozygotic twins showing more similar IQ scores than dizygotic twins, regardless of environmental differences (Plomin & Deary, 2015). Additionally, personality traits such as extraversion and neuroticism have been linked to genetic factors, although environmental influences also play a significant role (Bouchard & McGue, 2003).

In the realm of evolutionary psychology, certain behaviors are argued to have biological roots. For example, the universal tendency to experience fear in response to threats may be an adaptive trait inherited to enhance survival (Öhman & Mineka, 2001). Similarly, the preference for high-calorie foods could be traced back to ancestral environments where such resources were scarce but vital for energy conservation (Bettinghaus & Ogden, 2008).

Conversely, many behaviors are learned rather than innate. Classical conditioning demonstrates how individuals can acquire responses through experience, as seen in Pavlov’s experiments with dogs, where a neutral stimulus became associated with a response (Pavlov, 1927). Observational learning or modeling also plays a crucial role; children learn social behaviors, language, and cultural norms by mimicking adults and peers (Bandura, 1977). For example, a child might learn aggressive behavior after witnessing acts of violence on television or in their environment, illustrating learned behavior shaped by external stimuli.

Furthermore, the development of language is predominantly learned through social interaction, with children acquiring vocabulary and grammar by exposure and practice. Cultural influences also contribute significantly to behavioral development, shaping standards, beliefs, and norms that govern what behaviors are acceptable within a society (Berry, 2005).

In conclusion, human behavior is the result of a complex interplay between genetic predispositions and environmental influences. Some behaviors are primarily biologically determined, supporting the evolutionary perspective that traits aiding survival are inherited. Others are acquired through learning, observation, and socialization processes. Recognizing the balance between these factors is essential in understanding the diverse and adaptive nature of human behavior.

References

• Bandura, A. (1977). Social learning theory. General Learning Press.
• Bettinghaus, E. P., & Ogden, S. (2008). Communication campaigns about nutrition and health. In E. P. Bettinghaus & M. J. Cody (Eds.), Health communication (pp. 231-245). Waveland Press.
• Bouchard, T. J., & McGue, M. (2003). Genetic influence on human psychological traits. International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology, 6(4), 351-357.
• Öhman, A., & Mineka, S. (2001). Fears, phobias, and preparedness: Toward an evolved module of fear and anxiety. Psychological Review, 108(3), 483-522.
• Pavlov, I. P. (1927). Conditioned reflexes. Oxford University Press.
• Plomin, R., & Deary, I. J. (2015). Genetics and intelligence differences: five special findings. Molecular Psychiatry, 20(1), 98-108.