Behavior Genetics

Behavior Genetics is a theory and a method that focuses on the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to individual differences in the population. Many aspects of intellectual functioning, personality, health, and well-being across the lifespan show at least some genetic influence. Beyond just assessing the role of heredity, these methodologies are some of the most powerful tools for understanding environmental influences on behavioral development. This entry illustrates the kinds of questions that can and cannot be addressed with these methodologies, describes the types of research designs used, explains the link with molecular genetics, highlights controversies with the lifespan development perspective, and discusses the ways in which developmental scientists and behavioral geneticists can unite to advance both fields.

There are two ways to think about development ...