The interactionist approach to nature-nurture
The interactionist approach argues that nature (genes) and nurture (environment) work together to shape behaviour. Neither alone fully explains who we are.
Real World
Caspi et al. (2003) found that people with the short version of the 5-HTT serotonin transporter gene were more likely to develop depression, but only if they also experienced stressful life events — neither gene nor environment alone was sufficient.
Exam Focus
Use the term 'diathesis-stress model' as a named example of interactionism to demonstrate sophisticated understanding.
Evaluation Scaffold
A four-step framework for high-quality evaluation. Use this for 'assess', 'evaluate', and 'to what extent' questions.
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