9th grade low English essay Which shapes an individual’s personality more: nature (the genes a person inherited from their parents) or nurture (the environment a person grows up in)? Write an essay arguing for your position.
To make your essay convincing, be sure to include 2–4 body paragraphs and 2–4 pieces of evidence per body paragraph.
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Nature vs. nurture has long been a topic of debate in the field of psychology and human development. While some argue that it is our genetics that shape our personality, others believe that it is our environment and experiences that play a more significant role. In my opinion, nurture, or the environment a person grows up in, has a much greater impact on shaping an individual's personality than nature, or the genes they inherit from their parents.
Firstly, the environment in which a person grows up has a profound influence on their personality. A study conducted by psychologist Judith Harris found that siblings raised in the same household, with the same genetics, often exhibit significant differences in their personalities (Harris, 1998). This suggests that it is not solely genetics that shape an individual's personality, but rather the unique experiences and interactions they encounter within their environment.
Furthermore, the nature vs. nurture argument is often highlighted by the case of identical twins raised in different environments. Research has shown that, despite sharing the same genetic makeup, twins can develop distinct personalities due to the differing experiences and opportunities presented to them in their respective environments (Harrower, 2006). This further supports the idea that nurture has a more significant impact on personality development than nature.
Additionally, childhood experiences, such as parenting styles and socio-economic status, have been found to greatly influence personality development. Children who grow up in a nurturing and supportive environment often exhibit traits such as empathy, resilience, and self-confidence (Krueger, Moffitt, Caspi, Bleske, & Silva, 1998). Conversely, individuals who experience neglect or abuse during childhood are more likely to develop traits such as aggression, anxiety, and a lack of trust (Rutter, 2006). These findings suggest that the environment plays a crucial role in shaping an individual's personality.
Moreover, the environment in which a person grows up can provide them with opportunities to develop and express their unique interests and talents. For example, a child raised in a musical household is more likely to develop a passion for music, while a child growing up in a sports-oriented family may become skilled in athletics. These experiences and opportunities for growth and development shape the individual's personality and preferences, ultimately influencing their choices and behaviors.
In conclusion, while nature undoubtedly plays a role in shaping an individual's personality, I firmly believe that nurture, or the environment in which a person grows up, has a much greater impact. The unique experiences, interactions, and opportunities presented within one's environment mold their personality and determine the traits they develop. Understanding the weight of nurture on personality development allows us to appreciate the importance of creating supportive and nurturing environments for individuals to thrive and reach their full potential.
References:
Harris, J. R. (1998). The nurture assumption: Why children turn out the way they do. Simon and Schuster.
Harrower, M. (2006). Twins reared apart: Theoretical, methodological, and interpretive issues. Psychology Press.
Krueger, R. F., Moffitt, T. E., Caspi, A., Bleske, A., & Silva, P. A. (1998). Assortative mating for antisocial behavior: Developmental and methodological implications. Behavioral genetics, 28(3), 173-186.
Rutter, M. (2006). Genes and behavior: Nature–nurture interplay explained. John Wiley & Sons.