This lesson explores how inherited traits and life experiences contribute to intelligence. The question matters because neither a person’s circumstances nor their genetic background alone tells the whole story of their intellectual development.
Nature refers to inherited influences, while nurture refers to influences from a person’s environment and experiences. Researchers often use twin studies to investigate the role of genetics. The Minnesota Study of Twins Reared Apart found that identical twins—who share nearly all of their genes—had more similar IQ scores than siblings or fraternal twins, even when the identical twins were raised apart. This pattern supports the idea that intelligence has a genetic component.
All flashcards
Nature and nurture
Nature refers to inherited influences; nurture refers to environmental influences and experiences that can affect development.
Range of reaction
The theory that genetic makeup shapes a potential range and environmental conditions influence how development unfolds within it.
IQ score as a measurement
An IQ score reflects measurement in a particular context; it is not a complete account of a person's capacity or worth.
Comorbidity
The co-occurrence of a learning disability with another disorder.
Accommodation
A change in how a student demonstrates learning that need not change what the student is expected to understand.
Quiz questions
What pattern in the Minnesota Study of Twins Reared Apart supported a genetic contribution to intelligence?Answer: Identical twins had more similar IQ scores than fraternal twins or siblings, even when reared apart.
What does range of reaction propose about genetic makeup and environment?Answer: Genes shape a potential range, while environmental conditions influence where development falls within it.
Which distinction did Arthur Jensen propose between Level I and Level II abilities?Answer: Level I involved rote memorization; Level II involved conceptual and analytical abilities.
What concern did the plaintiffs raise in Larry P. v. Riles about intelligence testing?Answer: Tests normed on White children could unfairly classify African American students and affect their placement.
Which difficulty is characteristic of dyscalculia?Answer: Difficulty learning arithmetic, organizing numbers, or understanding number concepts.
Based on Psychology 2e by Rose M. Spielman, William J. Jenkins, Marilyn D. Lovett (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.