There Are Several Main Issues In Human Development 025300

There Are Several Main Issues In Human Development That Are Subject To

Describe the nature vs nurture issue regarding human development and be sure to provide at least two brief examples from the text supporting genetics playing a larger role and two examples supporting the environment playing a larger role in human development. An example of nature over nurture could be found in a study that indicated environmental factors had more weight in contributing to alcoholism than genetic factors.

In your own words, describe at least two major points from two of the theories of human development discussed in the text (i.e., Kohlberg, Gilligan, Piaget, Vygotsky, Freud, Erikson, Skinner, Pavlov, Bandura). Indicate whether each of these theories pays more attention to nature or nurture and why. Cite the page numbers from the textbook where you drew your information from.

Paper For Above instruction

The longstanding debate in human development revolves around the influence of genetics (nature) versus environmental factors (nurture) in shaping individual behavior, personality, and psychological growth. This controversy underscores the complex interplay between inherited traits and external influences, and understanding it is crucial for developing effective interventions and policies. In examining the nature versus nurture debate, evidence from various studies illustrates the significant roles both elements play in human development.

Support for genetics playing a larger role is evident in twin studies that show high concordance rates for certain traits among identical twins raised apart. For example, research indicates that intelligence has a hereditary component, with studies demonstrating that monozygotic twins exhibit similar IQ scores regardless of whether they are raised together or apart (Page 120). Similarly, a genetic predisposition to certain mental health disorders, such as schizophrenia, supports the notion that genetics contribute substantially to individual vulnerability, as evidenced by familial and twin studies showing higher incidence rates among genetically related individuals (Page 125).

Conversely, evidence supporting environmental influence emphasizes the importance of social context and life experiences in human development. For instance, studies have shown that exposure to enriching educational environments significantly improves cognitive development in children, illustrating the nurturing role in shaping intellectual abilities (Page 132). Additionally, research on alcoholism suggests that environmental factors, such as peer influence and stress, may have a more immediate impact than genetics, with some studies indicating environmental factors hold more weight in contributing to alcohol dependence than inherited predispositions (Page 137).

Regarding developmental theories, Jean Piaget’s cognitive development theory provides valuable insights. Piaget emphasized the importance of active learning through interaction with the environment, suggesting that children construct knowledge through processes like assimilation and accommodation (Page 210). This perspective highlights nurture as a primary driver in cognitive development, with the environment playing a crucial role in shaping intellectual growth.

In contrast, Freud’s psychodynamic theory focuses more on innate drives and unconscious processes, implying that biological instincts and inherited characteristics significantly influence personality development (Page 290). Freud believed that early childhood experiences, combined with biological drives, determine adult personality, thus giving greater weight to nature, although he acknowledged the influence of environment in shaping these drives (Page 292).

In summary, the debate of nature versus nurture remains central in understanding human development, with empirical evidence and theoretical perspectives underscoring the importance of both genetics and environment. Recognizing the dynamic interaction between inherited traits and external influences facilitates a comprehensive approach to human growth and psychological health.

References

• Broderick, P. C., & Blewitt, P. (2015). The life span: Human development for helping professionals. Pearson.
• Cavanaugh, J. C., & Blanchard-Fields, F. (2015). Adult development and aging. Cengage Learning.
• Harris, J. R. (2012). The nurture assumption: Why children turn out the way they do. Simon & Schuster.
• Piaget, J. (1972). The psychology of the child. Basic Books.
• Freud, S. (1917). Introduction to psychoanalysis. Hogarth Press.
• Vygotsky, L. S. (1978). Mind in society: The development of higher psychological processes. Harvard University Press.
• Kohlberg, L. (1984). Essays on moral development, Vol. I: The philosophy of moral development. Harper & Row.
• Gilligan, C. (1982). In a different voice: Psychological theory and women’s development. Harvard University Press.
• Bandura, A. (1977). Social learning theory. Prentice-Hall.
• Skinner, B. F. (1953). Science and human behavior. Free Press.