Nature vs. Nurture

So in psychology we are studying "Intelligent testing."  And one of the key debates for psychologists and sociologists both is nature vs. nurture.  Last year in Sociology we debated the issue of homosexuality and whether nature or nurture is the deciding factor.  This year in psychology we want to turn the nature vs. nurture debate and it's effect on intelligence.  Far below you will see a reminder of a blog we did in sociology.  Above are some videos that shed some light on the nature vs. nurture debate in psychology and the area of intelligence.  We will look at some articles highlighted in your online book and I will give you an opportunity to decide for yourself:  is intelligence influenced by nature or by nurture?

Homosexuality A Choice?

 

 

Summary: Sociologists almost always find strong evidence of nurture over nature in our studies, but there is one research area where the environment and socialization has little influence: sexual orientation. The cartoon at left highlights that while social scientists cannot find links between being gay and socialization factors like parenting styles, biological believers find strong evidence for their nature arguments that claim sexual orientation depends largely on genes, hormones, and birth order. The video also highlights how the research reflects focus almost exclusively on gay men and not lesbians.  The core message of this video is still very sociological because it outlines that since sexual orientation is neither an outcome of socialization or a lifestyle choice,  “conversion” therapy is not only ineffective, but can actually become a damaging socialization experience itself-which we have already discussed.

Another way to look at nature vs. nurture is through the Olympics.  Watch the following clip from the 2012 London Games.  (click here)