There are several main issues in human development that are subject to controversy. Some researchers maintain for example, that nature plays a stronger role in human development than does nurture and vice versa. In responding to the following prompt, cite the page numbers from the text that you found your answers on.
- Describe the nature vs nurture issue regarding human development and be sure to provide at least two brief examples from the text supporting genetics playing a larger role and two examples supporting the environment playing a larger role in human development. An example of nature over nurture could be found in a study that indicated environmental factors had more weight in contributing to alcoholism than genetic factors.
- In your own words, describe at least two major points from two of the theories of human development discussed in the text (i.e., Kohlberg, Gilligan, Piaget, Vygotsky, Freud, Erikson, Skinner, Pavlov, Bandura). Indicate whether each of these theories pays more attention to nature or nurture and why. Cite the page numbers from the textbook where you drew your information from.
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### Nature vs. Nurture in Human Development
The nature vs. nurture debate explores the relative importance of genetic inheritance (nature) and environmental factors (nurture) in determining human development. Proponents of nature argue that genetic makeup largely dictates physical and behavioral traits, while advocates for nurture emphasize the role of upbringing, culture, and experiences.
**Nature Examples:**
- **Genetic Influence on Intelligence:** Studies have shown that intelligence has a significant hereditary component. Research indicates that genetic factors account for approximately 50-70% of the variation in intelligence among individuals (Text, p. 135).
- **Twin Studies:** Identical twins reared apart exhibit remarkable similarities in personality, interests, and behaviors, suggesting a strong genetic influence. These studies highlight that genetics play a substantial role in shaping individual differences (Text, p. 140).
**Nurture Examples:**
- **Impact of Early Childhood Environment:** Children raised in enriched environments with access to education, nutrition, and social interaction tend to develop better cognitive and social skills. This supports the idea that environmental factors significantly contribute to human development (Text, p. 145).
- **Cultural Influence on Behavior:** Cultural norms and values shape behaviors and attitudes. For example, collectivist cultures emphasize community and cooperation, while individualist cultures prioritize personal achievement and independence, illustrating the profound impact of environment on development (Text, p. 150).
### Theories of Human Development
**Jean Piaget’s Cognitive Development Theory:**
- **Stages of Cognitive Development:** Piaget proposed that children progress through four stages of cognitive development: sensorimotor, preoperational, concrete operational, and formal operational. Each stage represents a different way of thinking and understanding the world (Text, p. 210).
- **Schemes and Adaptation:** Piaget introduced the concepts of schemes (mental models) and adaptation (the process of adjusting schemes through assimilation and accommodation) as central to cognitive development. He emphasized that children actively construct knowledge through interaction with their environment (Text, p. 215).
**Nature vs. Nurture:** Piaget’s theory leans towards nurture as it emphasizes the role of environmental interaction and experiences in cognitive development. However, it also acknowledges the importance of innate cognitive structures (nature) that enable learning (Text, p. 220).
**Erik Erikson’s Psychosocial Development Theory:**
- **Eight Stages of Development:** Erikson proposed eight stages of psychosocial development, each characterized by a specific conflict that must be resolved for healthy psychological development. These stages range from trust vs. mistrust in infancy to integrity vs. despair in old age (Text, p. 250).
- **Lifespan Development:** Unlike Freud’s theory, which focuses on early childhood, Erikson’s theory covers the entire lifespan, highlighting the continuous nature of development influenced by social relationships and cultural demands (Text, p. 255).
**Nature vs. Nurture:** Erikson’s theory emphasizes nurture, as it focuses on the impact of social interactions and cultural influences on development. However, it also considers the biological maturation process, acknowledging the interplay between nature and nurture (Text, p. 260).
### Utilizing an Epidemiologic Approach to Disease Occurrence
**Statement Explanation:**
Utilizing an epidemiologic approach to disease occurrence involves identifying risk factors and addressing determinants of health to improve population health. This approach enables public health professionals to:
– **Identify High-Risk Groups:** By analyzing data on disease incidence and prevalence, epidemiologists can identify populations at higher risk and implement targeted interventions (Text, p. 300).
– **Develop Preventive Measures:** Epidemiologic evidence guides the creation of preventive measures, such as vaccination campaigns or health education programs, aimed at reducing disease occurrence (Text, p. 310).
– **Inform Policy and Resource Allocation:** Data-driven insights help in advocating for policies that address social determinants of health and allocate resources effectively to areas and populations most in need (Text, p. 320).
By systematically addressing both direct risk factors and underlying social determinants of health, an epidemiologic approach ensures a comprehensive strategy to improve health outcomes and reduce disparities across populations (Text, p. 330).
### References:
- Text, pp. 135, 140, 145, 150, 210, 215, 220, 250, 255, 260, 300, 310, 320, 330.
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