Choose 1 of the following questions to answer by day 3 (Wednesday) and include 2 references. Your post should be at least 250 words. Please remember to answer to 2 of your classmates’ discussions (on 2 separate days) by Saturday. The reply to your classmates should be at least 100 words each. The references are not included in the word count! Thanks Question 1 Give examples and elaborate on the influences that make one person different from another. Question 2 Summarize the main theories of human development.
Question 1: Give examples and elaborate on the influences that make one person different from another.
When examining the influences that make one person different from another, it is essential to consider a variety of factors that contribute to individual differences. These influences can be categorized into three main categories: genetic influences, environmental influences, and personal experiences.
Genetic influences play a significant role in shaping an individual’s characteristics and behaviours. Each person inherits a unique set of genes from their parents, which can influence physical attributes such as eye color, hair texture, and height. Additionally, genetic factors can contribute to personality traits, intelligence, and temperament. For example, research has shown that specific genes are associated with traits such as extraversion, neuroticism, and openness to experience (De Neve et al., 2013). Therefore, genetic variations between individuals can lead to differences in their physical appearance, cognitive abilities, and behavioral tendencies.
Environmental influences also play a crucial role in shaping individuals. These influences include both prenatal and postnatal environments. Prenatal influences refer to the conditions and experiences that occur before birth. These include factors such as maternal nutrition, exposure to toxins, and stress levels during pregnancy. Research has shown that prenatal factors can have long-lasting effects on an individual’s development. For instance, exposure to maternal smoking during pregnancy has been linked to lower birth weight, increased risk of cognitive impairments, and behavioral problems in children (Cornelius et al., 2001).
Postnatal environmental influences refer to the experiences individuals have after birth. These experiences can range from the quality of parenting they receive to the culture and society in which they grow up. Parenting styles, for example, can impact a child’s self-esteem, social skills, and emotional development. Research has consistently shown that children who have warm and supportive parents tend to have better emotional and social competencies compared to children who experience neglect or harsh parenting (Baumrind, 1991).
Culture and societal influences also shape individual differences. Each culture has its unique set of norms, values, and beliefs that influence individuals’ behavior and attitudes. For example, in collectivist cultures, such as those found in many Asian countries, emphasis is placed on group harmony and interdependence. In contrast, individualistic cultures, such as those found in Western societies, prioritize individual goals and independence. These cultural differences can lead to variations in communication styles, social interactions, and decision-making processes.
Personal experiences further contribute to individual differences. Each person goes through a unique set of experiences throughout their life, and these experiences influence their thoughts, beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors. For example, traumatic events, such as physical abuse or the loss of a loved one, can have a profound impact on an individual’s mental and emotional well-being. On the other hand, positive experiences, such as receiving recognition for achievements or forming deep and meaningful relationships, can foster resilience and personal growth.
In conclusion, several influences contribute to making each person different from another. Genetic factors determine physical attributes, cognitive abilities, and personality traits. Environmental influences, both prenatal and postnatal, shape individuals through factors such as maternal health, parenting styles, and cultural values. Finally, personal experiences play a significant role in shaping thoughts, beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors. Understanding the interplay of these influences is crucial in comprehending the complexity of individual differences and human development.
References:
Baumrind, D. (1991). The influence of parenting style on adolescent competence and substance use. The Journal of Early Adolescence, 11(1), 56-95.
Cornelius, M. D., Goldschmidt, L., & Day, N. L. (2001). Prenatal cigarette smoking: Long-term effects on young adult behavior problems and smoking behavior. Nicotine & Tobacco Research, 3(4), 317-329.
De Neve, J. E., Christakis, N. A., Fowler, J. H., & Frey, B. S. (2013). Genes, Economics, and Happiness. Journal of Neuroscience, Psychology, and Economics, 6(4), 213-221.