The role of nature in brain development
- Nature (in terms of human behaviour and functioning) refers to:
- biological/physiological factors
- innate mechanisms/functions/responses
- mechanisms/functions/responses that are not a product of environment/learning
- The ‘nature’ side of the nature-nurture debate argues that we are born with reflexes and behaviours which aid survival e.g. crying for attention
- Early brain development tends to follow the same pattern for all humans but some people may inherit genetic conditions which means that their brains develop differently:
- Some genetic brain disorders are a result of the brain not producing enough of certain proteins necessary for healthy brain development
- Serious brain disorders can cause problems with the nervous system e.g. Wilson disease
- Wilson disease is a rare inherited disorder that prevents the body from getting rid of extra copper (too much of which can be poisonous)
- Wilson disease can cause damage to the brain, kidneys and eyes; it is present from birth, hence it is a product of nature
Exam Tip
It is absolutely VITAL that you don’t confuse nature with nurture: the two are opposed so if you have to make a quick note on your exam paper then do so!
- Nature = what we are born with
- Nurture = what we learn via our environment.