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.
Nature versus nurture has been an ongoing debate in the field of psychology, exploring the dominant factor that shapes an individual's personality. While both nature, referring to the genes inherited from parents, and nurture, representing the environment one grows up in, play significant roles in shaping personality, the influence of nurture holds a greater impact in molding an individual's character. This can be observed through examining various aspects of human development, such as behavior, intelligence, and social skills.
Firstly, the environment in which an individual grows up greatly influences their behavior. A study conducted by the University of Minnesota revealed that children who witness aggressive behavior in their homes are more likely to display aggressive tendencies themselves when they grow up. This demonstrates that the nurturing environment children are exposed to during their developmental years significantly impacts their behavioral patterns. Furthermore, children raised in stimulating and supportive environments tend to exhibit positive behaviors such as empathy, compassion, and cooperation. The influence of the environment on behavior is evident in the varying behaviors observed across different cultures and societies.
Secondly, the impact of nurture on intelligence is undeniable. While genes contribute to a certain extent, it is the environment that provides the necessary stimuli for intellectual development. An individual's exposure to educational resources, opportunities for intellectual growth, and the quality of their education significantly shape their intelligence. A study published in the Journal of Educational Psychology revealed that children who are raised in intellectually stimulating environments tend to have higher IQ scores compared to their peers from less privileged backgrounds. This not only demonstrates the importance of nurture in fostering intellectual development but also highlights the potential for individuals to overcome genetic predispositions through a supportive environment.
Lastly, the social skills individuals possess are predominantly shaped by their experiences and interactions within their environment. Social skills are crucial for successful navigation of relationships, collaborations, and communication. Individuals who grow up in nurturing environments that emphasize positive social interactions tend to develop strong social skills and emotional intelligence. As a result, they are more likely to form satisfying relationships and excel in various social contexts. A study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology revealed that individuals who have consistent positive support from their families during childhood display higher levels of social competence and are generally more well-adjusted in social situations.
In conclusion, while nature plays a role in shaping an individual's personality, it is the nurturing environment in which one grows up that has a greater impact. The evidence presented demonstrates that behavior, intelligence, and social skills are significantly influenced by the environment rather than solely dependent on genetic factors. Understanding the importance of nurture allows us to recognize the potential for positive change and growth through creating supportive environments and providing opportunities for individuals to thrive, regardless of their genetic predispositions.