Behavior genetics studies genetic traits of personality and behavior, combining genetics, psychology, and ethnology. Genetic personality traits are polygenic and complex, with environmental influences impacting them. Scientists study large populations to identify shared characteristics, including mental illness and alcoholism. Ethical concerns limit manipulation of human environments, but twin studies have shown remarkable similarities in separated twins, suggesting a genetic link.
The short answer to this question is yes, but the long answer is much more complicated. There is, in fact, an entire field dedicated to the study of genetic traits of personality and behavior; this field is known as behavior genetics. Scientists in this field combine a study of genetics, psychology, and ethnology to study behavioral trends in various populations of humans and animals. As the mysteries of the human genome are unraveled, this field of study is rapidly expanding.
When examining genetic influences on personality, it is important to remember that genes alone are not responsible. First, genetic personality traits are polygenic, meaning they involve multiple genes, not a single gene. Therefore, studying these traits is extremely complex, since scientists do not yet fully understand how these genes interact with each other, let alone how they interact with other genes. Additionally, environmental influences can have a major impact on personality, although these influences can interact with someone’s genes.
People who study genetic personality traits look at large populations in an attempt to identify shared characteristics. This is where ethnography is important, as scientists want to make sure they get an accurate sample, to ensure their work is sound. Some studies have also been extremely busy, spanning many years of trying to look at multiple generations and environments. Study of the animals has revealed numerous personality traits that are clearly genetic, as they may be species-specific adaptations to unique environments.
Numerous genetic personality traits have been identified in humans. Scientists have observed that things like mental illness and alcoholism appear to have genetic links, with many families showing a statistically unusual incidence of these conditions. Personality traits that are passed down can also be more subtle; some families, for example, appear to have a general tendency of antisocial behavior, although it can be difficult to pinpoint specific behavioral tics and tendencies.
It is difficult to study genetic personality traits ethically, as so many factors can come together to influence someone’s development. Scientists must rely on observational study as manipulation of the human environment is generally considered unethical. Twin studies have proved particularly interesting to psychologists studying these types of personality traits, as twins can develop into remarkably similar people despite being separated at birth. Twins who have never met, for example, could both decide to become firefighters, suggesting a clear genetic link between their personalities.
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