What does an adoption study aim to investigate in genetics?

What does an adoption study aim to investigate in genetics?

• A. The characteristics shared by identical twins
• B. The influence of environment on behavior among adopted individuals
• C. Common traits shared by first-degree relatives in diverse environments
• D. The mapping of genes across generations

Answer: (C)

An adoption study primarily aims to investigate the influence of heredity and environment on traits or behaviors by examining individuals who were raised apart from their biological families. The correct answer addresses the investigation of common traits shared by first-degree relatives, regardless of the environments in which they were raised. This allows researchers to discern the relative contributions of genetic inheritance and environmental factors. In an adoption study, researchers analyze traits of adopted individuals and compare them to those of their biological relatives. This comparison provides insights into the genetic predisposition of traits while accounting for the different environmental influences the adopted individuals experience. The goal is to determine whether similarities among relatives are primarily due to their genetic backgrounds or shaped by their upbringing. This approach is crucial in behavioral genetics as it helps to clarify the extent to which traits are hereditary versus influenced by the environment, contributing to a better understanding of complex behaviors and conditions.

An adoption study primarily aims to investigate the influence of heredity and environment on traits or behaviors by examining individuals who were raised apart from their biological families. The correct answer addresses the investigation of common traits shared by first-degree relatives, regardless of the environments in which they were raised. This allows researchers to discern the relative contributions of genetic inheritance and environmental factors.

In an adoption study, researchers analyze traits of adopted individuals and compare them to those of their biological relatives. This comparison provides insights into the genetic predisposition of traits while accounting for the different environmental influences the adopted individuals experience. The goal is to determine whether similarities among relatives are primarily due to their genetic backgrounds or shaped by their upbringing.

This approach is crucial in behavioral genetics as it helps to clarify the extent to which traits are hereditary versus influenced by the environment, contributing to a better understanding of complex behaviors and conditions.