The Nature / Nurture Debate

The nature/nurture debate focuses on whether an individual’s behaviour and development are the result of genetic inheritance (biological factors) or environmental factors (upbringing and life experiences).

Nature is the view that behaviour and human development is the product of biological factors. People are born with skills and behaviours which influence their development, some of which are inherited (genetic inheritance).

Nurture is the view that human behaviour and development is the product of environmental influences. The environment is seen as everything outside the body which can include people, events and the physical world.