Question – Research indicates that the characteristics we are born with have much more influence on our personality and development than any experiences we may have in our lives. Which do you consider to be the major influences?
Answer – Studies have shown that inherited traits have a much higher impact on psychological development in comparison to environmental influences. This essay will highlight how genetics plays a prominent role in shaping our personality.
To begin, traits act as a biological marker. They create a boundary within which development is possible for an individual. An adequate environment helps this process flourish. For instance, two individuals having a relatively similar environment would possess very different psychological traits, as inherited traits would overpower environmental influences. Moreover, some innate characteristics that are carried in our genes from our ancestors or parents cannot be changed, as these tend to remain with us until we die. To cite an example, there was research conducted in British Columbia which stated that 76 per cent of the habits that someone acquires are inherited from one of the family members, like curly hair or dental cavities.
Furthermore, twin association studies have shown how twins separated at birth growing up in a contrasting environment still indicated having similar traits such as intelligence quotient. Although the environment plays a vital role in shaping the personality of an individual, it ultimately is a result of traits acquired at birth. Hence, I firmly opine that although you can change or modify a behaviour temporarily, you cannot mould a person’s personality completely.
To summarise, inherited traits are much more dominant in nature when it comes to the formation of personality, even though environmental influences help shape it. Learning in life can make a person a better version of themselves, but something that you are made of cannot be dominated.
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