SAGE Journal Articles

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LO 2.9. Compare patterns of gene expression, including reaction range, canalization, gene-environment correlations, and epigenetic framework.

Avinun, R., & Knafo, A. (2014). Parenting as a reaction evoked by children’s genotype: A meta-analysis of children-as-twins studies. Personality and Social Psychology Review, 18, 87-102. 

Summary/abstract excerpt: The findings in the study stress the importance of accounting for genotype-environment correlations in child development studies.

Questions to Consider:

  1. Why is it useful to incorporate genetic methods to determine who affects whom in ongoing interactions?
  2. How does a child’s genetic influence relate to parenting?
  3. Describe the findings with respect to shared-environmental effects and nonshared-environmental effects in the study.
  4. What other type of study could a researcher do to try and understand nature vs. nurture?
  5. How can the findings be used to improve treatments and interventions of children who are maltreated?

LO 2.7. Discuss genetic counseling and prenatal testing, including common prenatal tests.

Rabino, I. (2003). Genetic testing and its implications: Human genetics researchers grapple with ethical issues. Science, Technology, & Human Values, 28, 365-402.

Summary/abstract excerpt: The article discusses ethical issues involved in the field of human genetics. Professionals in the field of genetics discuss the pros, cons, and ethical implications of genetic testing.

Questions to Consider:

  1. What advantage does genomic information have on human development? Are there any disadvantages? If yes, what might they be?
  2. What role does counseling play in genetic testing?
  3. What is the new eugenics viewpoint?
  4. In what cases (if any) do you think information obtained in genetic testing would justify the termination of a pregnancy?