PSYC 109W Lecture 6: Lecture 6.pdf
9 Dec 2012
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Document Summary
Human cells each contain 46 chromosomes in pairs (sex cells- 23 single) Each chromosome- thousands of genes, also in pairs. Each parent contributes 23 chromosome pairs, which can be scrambled in over 8 million ways. Individuals share half of their genes with parents and full siblings. More distant relatives share smaller portions of genes. Most human characteristics are polygenic, or influenced by more than one gene. Twin studies of intelligence and personality: (intelligence- mcgue et al. , 1993; extraversion- Identical twins tend to be more similar than fraternal twins with regard to intelligence and specific personality traits, such as extraversion. Findings suggest intelligence is influenced by heredity. Based on darwin"s ideas of natural selection: reproductive success key. Adaptations- behavioural as well as physical i. e. taste preference. The study of the evolution of behaviour and the mind, using the principles of natural selection.
