Psych600 Wk 1 Discussion Nature Versus Nurture.Edited(1)

The debate around nature versus nurture explores the influences of genetics (nature) and environment (nurture) in shaping human behavior, personality, and development. Proponents of the nature side of the debate believe that individuals inherit characteristics through biological factors, such as DNA. Whereas advocates of the nurture side of the debate believe our environments and socialization shape us to be who we are and what we like and dislike. Consider how you became the person you are. Where did you get your characteristics? Take a closer look at the nature versus nurture debate by analyzing your own characteristics. Create a list of ten characteristics that depict you. Think of how you would describe your personality, abilities, emotions, hobbies, and physical appearance. Write a "B" for biological (genetics) next to all the characteristics that are a result of your DNA (nature). Write an "E" for environment next to all the characteristics that are a result of the way you were raised (nurture). It may be hard to determine what to label a characteristic. If you think any characteristics could be attributed to both, label them as "BE." Respond to the following in your discussion: • Which areas of your life did you identify that relate more to nurture? Why? • Which areas of your life did you identify that relate more to nature? Why? • Did anything surprise you or confuse you? If so, what?