Common sense nevertheless will tell us that it is necessary to use both forms of explanation together, for the past and the present are inextricably tied up. Often our present interpretations of recent experiences are closely related to past experiences. There are two different ways of describing the origin of psychological attributes. Hereditary in human beings refers to behaviours or characteristics which have been transmitted from parents to offspring. The units of hereditary are genes.
Genes work to determine the course of development in the growing human embryo.
Common sense tells us that genetic and environmental influences often interact to produce a specific kind of behaviour. When considering the origin of psychological characteristics therefore, you must consider both natural and environmental causes. The information given is for general information and should not be regarded as advice in any matter. Australian Correspondence Schools disclaims all and any liability in relation to any act or omission which is done in reliance to the information provided in this web site.