RE: Psychology Addict # 55 | The Role Biology Plays in Defining Who We Are - A Critical Discussion.
You are viewing a single comment's thread:
Great post!
I personally believe that every human behavior is influenced both by the individuals biology as well as social factors. That includes their identity and who they become in life. Basically it comes down to how the individuals genes interact with their environment. Its funny how people in different fields often tend to believe that these things are attributed to either the individuals biology or their social environment though - as you pointed out with your colleagues. Some people believe that it is an either or scenario. But I dont think that we can say that these are either or scenarios personally. They will always be both. Genes definitly play a huge role in a individuals behavior and interestingly, different environments can activate and influence different genes.
I find the topic of attachement pretty interesting, especially since research suggests that an individual's attachement style carries with them into adulthood but also that a secure attachment style can be learned and developed overtime even in adulthood. I wasnt aware that genes play a role in that as well. That was really interesting.
The part that you discuss regarding sex hormones in utero influencing gender is quite interesting as well. I only have a limited understanding of that but find it quite facinating. It seems that even birth order may have an effect on that as well as sex hormones can change and be influenced by previous pregnancies. Kind of like a countering effect. Again, my understanding of that is limited though. And as you pointed out, socioeconomic factors also often play a role in an individuals behavioral development (if im understanding correctly).
I personally think that the moral of the story (so to speak) is that in the end, both biology and social factors influence an individuals behavior and identity. I dont think that we could ever truely rule out either.
Hopefully HF21 goes smoothly.
Take care :)
Hey @leaky20 :D
This brings epigenetic to mind. My knowledge of it is of minimum level, though! :DYep, I am with you here. I also don't think it is an “either, or” scenario. And, it is quite surprising to still come upon well-informed people who stand by that kind of judgement. It's just too rigid!
Further, as you observed, there is still flexibility within this nature x nurture transaction. Not only do different environmenst prompt genes to be expressed differently, but there is also the possibility of modifying whatever results from that initial transaction. As in attachment styles, just like you observed! :) Thank goodness for neuroplasticity Leaky!
Yep, for me, the moral of the story is that neither factor should be ruled out. For, as much as we are social animals, we’re also biological entities.
You guys take care as well over there with the doggies!
All the best to you two 😊
"I am myself and my circumstances"
José Ortega y Gasset