In this activity, you will write a short journal article that discusses how genetics and the environment shape or influence the development of behaviors.

Step 1. Review (48 mins)

Review these learning resources relevant to the activity.

• Human Genetics
• What is an Environmental Factor?

Step 2. Study (30 mins)

Study the given scenario below:

Step 3. Respond (180 mins)

Respond by writing a 450-850 -word journal article that tackles the following points:

• What is the link between genes and behaviors? And between environment and behaviors? 
• What genetic and environmental factors influence the determination of our behaviors? (List several factors for genetic influences and several factors for environmental influences.)
• Choose one genetic factor and explain how it can influence behaviors.
• Choose one environmental factor and explain how it can influence behaviors.
• Why are there genetically based behavioral differences among individuals?
• How do genetically based behavioral differences affect the natural environment?

Step 3. Share (10 mins)

To share your work, click on the “Add a new discussion topic” button under this post and paste your work into the “Message” box. Make sure to reference others’ intellectual property when necessary. All references should follow 7th Edition APA formatting. For further instructions, see the resource on the Himmelfarb Health Sciences Library: APA citation resource (N.B. references are excluded from word counts).

Step 4. Interact (10 mins)

Evaluate and categorize the work from one of your peers based on items A - E of the rubric below. Provide a rationale for the grade you have provided, as well as comments or suggestions for improvement. To post a reply, click “Reply” on a particular discussion, write your feedback and then click on “Post to forum.” You can use the list below as an example:

Item A is  .…. because….  My suggestions for improvement are….
Item B is  .…. because….  My suggestions for improvement are….
Item C is  .…. because….  My suggestions for improvement are….
Item D is  .…. because….  My suggestions for improvement are….
Item E is  .…. because….  My suggestions for improvement are….

OPTIONAL Step 5: Interact (10 minutes)

If you would like to, you can reply to your peers' posts in a respectful and professional manner. Ensure that your post engages your peers' ideas by including a reflection on their comments, sharing ideas of other potential difficulties and parties involved, or asking thought-provoking questions. If a peer comments on your posting, please reply. To post a reply, click “Reply” on a particular discussion, write your feedback and then click on “Post to forum.”