A03

• : One strength of research into the nature-nurture debate is the use of adoption studies.

  : Adoption studies allow researchers to disentangle the influences of genetics (nature) and environment (nurture) by comparing adopted children with their adoptive and biological parents. 

  : Rhee and Waldman's (2002) meta-analysis found that genetic factors accounted for 41% of the variance in aggression.

  : Therefore, this suggests that adoption studies offer a methodological advantage in understanding the complex interaction between genetic and environmental factors in human behaviour.
• Point: However, further research suggests that this approach may be misguided.

  Evidence: Plomin (1994) argues that individuals actively shape their environments based on their genetic predispositions, a concept known as niche-picking. 

  Explain: This means that individuals select environments that align with their inherent traits, which in turn further influence their behaviour.

  Link: Therefore, this challenges the traditional dichotomy between nature and nurture, emphasising the need for a more comprehensive understanding of their interplay.
• Point: The complexity of the interactionist approach through epigenetics is supported by research evidence.

  Evidence: Susser and Lin demonstrated that prenatal exposure to famine during The Dutch Hunger Winter was associated with increased risk of schizophrenia in offspring.

  Explain: This shows the role of environmental factors in gene expression across generations.

  Link: Therefore, this supports the view of long-term impact of environmental exposures on gene expression and health outcomes of future offspring.
• A +ve consequence of the nature-nurture debate = rl application.

  Nestadt’s ('10) research on OCD - high heritability of the disorder, which informs genetic counselling which tries to inform how X inevitable that the person will develop the disorder.

  Understanding the interaction between genetic predisposition & environ factors can help ppl manage their risk & prevent the onset of OCD e.g. learning how to manage stress.

  :. => this reveals the importance of integrating genetic & environ factors in addressing complex mental health conditions in a practical therapeutic setting.