-We all share common biological heritage but also behavioral tendencies
-Both genes and our culture matters in making us who we are
Genes: Our Genetic Blueprint
Our genes enable our biology, which in turn enables our behaviors.
Evolutionary Psychology: Maximizing Fitness
Evolutionary psychologists study how natural selection favored behavioral tendencies that contributed to the survival and spread of our ancestors' genes.
Behavior geneticists study our individual differences. Their interdisciplinary research weighs genetic and environmental contributions to our various traits.
Environmental Influence
Genetic differences account for about half of our differences in personality, and cultural influences account for the rest.
The Nature and Nurture of Gender
Genes and hormones help define gender, but environment plays a key role as well.