Behavioral Genetics

Book Title

Essays in Developmental Psychology

Author(s)

Ashley R. Strong, Nova Southeastern UniversityFollow
Lisa K. Lashley, Nova Southeastern UniversityFollow
Charles J. Golden, Nova Southeastern UniversityFollow

Document Type

Essay

Publication Date

2020

Editors

Randall Summers, Charles Golden, Lisa Lashley, & Erica Ailes

Keywords

behavioral genetics, ethology, experimental psychology, genetic and environmental factors, neuroscience, scientific research

Description

Excerpt

Behavioral genetics is a field of scientific research that aims to understand how much genetic and environmental factors contribute to variability in behavior. From a genetics standpoint, numerous genes are influenced by the environment, which results in complex behaviors. Additionally, the physiology and developmental history of an individual, along with its environment, can modify genes and neuronal circuits of the brain. Furthermore, evolution and natural selection shape behaviors to optimize survival of the individual. Behavioral genetics is an evolving field that involves a combination of experimental psychology, genetics, neuroscience, and ethology.

Additional Information

This is one in a collection of essays as part of a project that began as an encyclopedia of developmental psychology coordinated by Dr. Randall Summers. However, for unforeseen reasons, the publisher was no longer in a position to publish the encyclopedia. This project was undertaken so that thousands of hours of work by psychologists would not go wasted. Enjoy these essays and feel free to cite them using the proper format.

Submit suggestions for corrections and topics to goldench@nova.edu.

Disciplines

Psychology

NSUWorks Citation

Strong, A. R., Lashley, L. K., Golden, C. J. (2020). Behavioral Genetics. Essays in Developmental Psychology.
Available at: https://nsuworks.nova.edu/cps_facbooks/662

Files