- Genes are made up of DNA which provides the blueprint for the structure and function of the human body. This could include behaviour.
- An individual’s genome refers to all the genes that individual possesses.
- The link between genes and behaviour can be studied using one or more examples.
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Genes are switched on and off by signals from inside and outside the body.
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Internal signals include the presence of hormones or other chemicals, or indeed other genes.
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Hormones are frequently produced as a result of environmental events and work by altering gene expression.
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There are countless environmental events that also affect gene expression.
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The signal activates special proteins that can promote or block the expression of a gene. Genes are constantly being switched on and off.
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Sometimes genes are permanently switched off. This is mostly achieved by methylation of the DNA molecule as part of the developmental process.
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This effect on genes is sometimes referred to as epigenetics as there is no alteration in the actual structure of the DNA.
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Mutations occur when there is an actual alteration of the DNA.
- Competition for scarce resources, like food or mates, leads to the promotion of favourable traits; physical or behavioural.
- Whatever their nature, they are regarded as favourable traits as they allow the individual to acquire sufficient resources in order to survive and reproduce.
- When the individual reproduces, it passes these traits on to the next generation; the more they reproduce, the more individuals will have the trait in the next generation; survival of the fittest by natural selection
- Genetics and environmental challenges are therefore both important in the success of specific traits and behaviour
- Evolutionary explanations for behaviour can be studied using one or more examples.
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