Explain the difference between dominant and recessive genes, and provide an example of each one.
Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: A dominant gene is expressed each time it is present in a person, whereas a recessive gene is only expressed when it is paired with another recessive gene. For example, dimples are dominant and attached earlobes are recessive.
Define chromosome, DNA, and gene. Describe their relationship.
Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: Humans have 46 chromosomes in each cell: 23 from the mother and 23 from the father. Chromosomes are the threadlike structures that are made of DNA, a complex molecule that contains genetic information. Genes are small segments of DNA that serve as the biochemical units of heredity. Like choromosomes, they operate in pairs, and these pairs can affect a particular process or personal characteristics.
Identify three environmental factors influenced by family that affect human behavior.
Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: Family influences human development through nutrition, traditions, morals, beliefs, or religion. Families may hand down their nutritional practices to their children. Nutrition is important because it will determine how healthy a person is and how that person's body will develop. Traditions and religion may influence how a person behaves, and a person's morals and beliefs, which is taught to them by their parents, may determine how they will treat others.
Summarize the nature versus nurture debate, and explain how contemporary theorists view this debate.
Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: The nature versus nurture debate has been a controversy in the field of psychology for decades. Historically, theorists have argued whether nature or nurture influences development. Most theorists today agree that human behavior is a combination of both nature and nurture.
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