Behavioral Genetic Determinism Do Genes Equal Behavior...

Behavioral Genetic Determinism: Do Genes Equal Behavior? Human behavior is a loosely defined foundation for individuality, generally considered to be influenced and developed by the environment. However, recent molecular studies have exposed genetic factors that suggest a more biological origin for behavior. Gene segments in the genome of humans and other animals have been identified and associated with particular behavioral traits. Is it possible that the presence or absence of even a single gene may predispose one to alcoholism, increased irritability, or enhanced intelligence? Clearly exploration of the nature versus nurture argument with regard to genetic predisposition has social, political, and legal significance.†¦show more content†¦The recently completed human genome sequence has greatly assisted the detection of QTLs and polymorphisms (2). It must also be emphasized that genes do not directly dictate action, but rather are mediated by the proteins that they code for. It is necessary to examine not only the genes but also the assortment of proteins responsible for expression of particular traits (3)It is anticipated that detailed analysis of the human genome will contribute to understandings about gene organization and transcription, and hence regulatory elements that control expression. By utilizing genomic and proteomic tools, the relationship between gene/protein and behavior may be more accurately described. Effective behavioral genetic research requires investigation of families and populations, rather than individuals. Environmental factors influencing populations must also be considered. The heritability patterns of a behavior are compared with a control population experiencing similar environmental factors. A theoretical formula to account for variability is frequently employed: total phenotypic variability of a specific trait equals the genetic component plus the environmental component plus the interaction of the two (4). However, research has determined that environmental influences tend to disengage behavioral traits among family members rather than unify them. Furthermore, traditional belief asserted that geneticShow MoreRelatedA Study Led By David T. Lykken1568 Words   |  7 Pagesof body, and a great deal of what happens in our body depends on genes, which are responsible for the proteins produced in the body, carrying out chemical reactions and regulating all the physi cal responses. (Kent, 2013) Therefore the researchers had an appropriate speculation that basis of personality may be genetically inherited. Studies of behavioural genetics implied that differences in personalities are result entirely of genes and non-shared environment. (Borkenau, Riemann, Angleitner, SpinathRead MoreEssay on Creation of the World3047 Words   |  13 Pageswere herbivorous (Genesis 1:30) to the readily observable present state of the world where many animals eat each other. 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