Behavioral Genetics Overview

The part of our mind that we are aware of, influencing our thoughts, behaviors, and decisions.

The part of our mind that operates outside of our conscious awareness, influencing our behavior, thoughts, and decisions subtly.

The field of study that investigates the relationship between genetics and behavior.

A person's genetic makeup, including their unique combination of genes.

The observable characteristics of an individual, influenced by both genetics and environment.

The study of how the expression of genes can be altered without changing the DNA sequence itself.

Changes in the body, brain, motor skills, and sensory abilities that happen over a person's lifetime.

The development of thinking, reasoning, and problem-solving skills.

The development of emotions, personality, and social interactions.

A sensitive period during development when certain experiences have a significant impact on the individual's development.

A neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by significant difficulties in social communication and interaction, as well as restricted, repetitive behaviors and interests.

Brain cells that fire both when performing an action and when observing another person performing the same action.

A strong emotional bond formed between an infant and their caregiver.

Distress displayed by an infant when their caregiver leaves the immediate environment.

Fear of strangers commonly displayed by infants.

A critical period during infancy where attachments are formed, particularly in the first few years of life.

A process where certain animals form attachments to the first moving object they see after birth.

A standardized test used to assess the quality of attachment between infants and caregivers.

A specific time period during development when an individual is highly sensitive to certain environmental experiences. If the necessary experiences are missed during this period, it may be difficult or impossible to develop certain skills later.

The ability to trust others, which plays a crucial role in shaping an individual's personality and social skills.

A research design where the same group of individuals is studied at different time points as they age. This allows researchers to observe real age-related changes.

A research design that studies several different age groups at the same time. This approach is quicker and less expensive.

A particular impact on development that arises due to a group of people sharing a common time period or life experience.

A research design that combines both longitudinal and cross-sectional approaches, observing different age groups over time to mitigate limitations of both.

The beginning of prenatal development when a sperm fertilizes an egg, forming a zygote.

A fertilized egg, the first stage of prenatal development.

The first two weeks after conception, during which the zygote divides and begins differentiation.

A parenting style characterized by strict rules, harsh punishments, and limited emotional expression. Children raised with this style may exhibit insecurity and anxiety.

A parenting style where few rules are set and children have significant freedom. This approach can lead to insecure attachment due to a lack of boundaries and guidance.

A parenting style known for its balance of warmth, clear expectations, and reason-based discipline. It encourages communication and fosters a secure attachment.

A biological theory of personality emphasizing innate differences in temperament, influencing how a child interacts with the world. Temperament can affect the quality of attachment.

A temperament characterized by predictable behavior, easy adaptability to new situations, and positive mood. These children are more likely to form secure attachments.

A temperament exhibiting irregular schedules, negative reactions to change, and frequent crying. These children may experience challenges forming secure attachments.

A temperament that starts as cautious and reserved but gradually warms up to new situations. It's less predictable than the easy temperament but eventually becomes more adaptable.

A theory proposed by Erik Erikson, emphasizing the development of social relationships as a key factor in personality development. It postulates that each stage of life has a crisis that must be resolved.

The first stage of psychosocial development (0-1 years), where infants learn to trust or mistrust based on their caregiver's responsiveness to their needs. A sense of trust or mistrust in caregivers and the world is built during this stage.

The second stage of psychosocial development (1-3 years), where toddlers strive for independence and autonomy. If given ample opportunities to explore and make their own choices, they develop a sense of competence. If not, they may develop feelings of shame and doubt about their abilities.

The third stage of psychosocial development (3-5 years), where preschoolers engage in imaginative play and learn to initiate activities. Success in this stage fosters initiative and creativity. Failure can lead to a sense of guilt and fear of taking responsibility.

The fourth stage of psychosocial development (5-12 years), where school-aged children focus on developing skills and competence in academic and social settings. Success in this stage leads to a sense of industry and accomplishment. Failure can lead to feelings of inferiority and inadequacy.

The fifth stage of psychosocial development (12-18 years), where adolescents explore their identity and sense of self. They experiment with different roles and values to find their place in the world. If unable to resolve this crisis, they may experience role confusion and difficulty in defining themselves.

The sixth stage of psychosocial development (18-40 years), where young adults focus on forming intimate relationships and finding a sense of belonging. Success in this stage fosters intimacy and connectedness. Failure can lead to isolation and loneliness.

The seventh stage of psychosocial development (40-65 years), where adults strive to leave a lasting legacy and contribute to society. They focus on raising children, mentoring others, and making a positive impact. Failure to find purpose can lead to a sense of stagnation and meaninglessness.

The eighth stage of psychosocial development (65 years and beyond), where older adults reflect on their life and strive for a sense of fulfillment and integrity. They come to terms with their accomplishments and regrets. Failure to achieve this can lead to despair and dissatisfaction.