Nature Vs Nurture Sociological Approach

Nature vs. Nurture: A Sociological Approach

We belong to an extremely complex world in which humans are forced to adapt to their ever-changing surroundings. Whether it be to integrate technology into education, stand up and express one’s true sexuality, care for those suffering in third world countries, or learn to adapt to a college environment, what is it that defines who we are as human beings and the qualities we possess to help make our decisions and adapt? A common sociological approach has been trying to explain this concept for decades, that concept being nature vs. nurture. Nature refers to all of the genes and hereditary factors that influence who we are. This entails everything from our physical appearance to the differing characteristics

Also, differing traits of an individual result from environmental and social influences, such as behavior or maybe intelligence. Within this nature vs. nurture dichotomy, which distinguishes the various human characteristics? Research reveals facts about the origins of children’s personalities and how parents can help shape them. "How a parent treats the children they raise appears far less important than we once thought, but the different ways in which they interact with each child as an individual are very important." (Glass, 1999, 3). Moreover, the parent’s role in shaping their child into a doctor, or an artist, or an athlete is far less significant than nurturing them to be the best person they can be. “Simply providing a warm, responsive environment is their most important job, because it allows the child’s tendencies and talents to flourish, but there 's a limit to what they can do” (Glass, 1999, 3). The idea of this research is nurture through nature. Each individual on the planet has their own unique genetic make-up, which to only a certain extent can be influenced. Rather than attempting to alter children into whom their parents want them to be, the best they can do for them is “nurture their

“Children benefit academically and show less criminal behavior when they have fathers as well as mothers actively engaged in their lives” (Gordan, 2004, 76). The very first relationship a child develops is with his/her parent, where interaction ideally begins. From a simple smile to punishment for an undesirable action –– parents play a vital role in the development of their children. The effects of parenting early on are shown later in life through interaction, behavior, and even academics. A brief example of this is shown through school achievement. A child whose parents spend a plethora of time speaking and promote reading may show a much more extensive vocabulary later on in life. This perceived competency may result in confidence and encourage the child to undergo more difficult tasks and create stronger bonds with peers. Whereas if a parent weren’t in the picture to encourage these different aspects, children may be more self conscious and be more apt to provoke aggression and in turn be rejected by peers. This will eventually cause them to question their acceptability in society. “The influence of these parental factors suggests that it is more accurate to state that parental qualities contribute to a child’s psychological profile, rather than to conclude that family conditions determine a