1module 2 Discussion Questions Pick One Of Your Traits And Explain T ✓ Solved
1. Module 2 Discussion Questions · Pick one of your traits and explain the influences that both nature and nurture have on it. For example, if you have a short temper, explain its origins in your genetics, your culture, and your childhood experiences. 2. Module 3 Discussion Questions · Programs like Head Start aimed at providing cognitive enrichment for children growing up in impoverished areas are focused on children ages 3-5.
The newer works on brain development, however, suggest that this may be too late. Do you think enrichment programs for infants would make more sense? Are such programs likely to be socially acceptable or practically feasible? 3. Module 4 Discussion Questions · Is it possible to overemphasize the importance of secure attachment?
Why or why not? Consider this video when formulating your response: : Trauma, Brain & Relationship: Helping Children Heal (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site. 4. Trauma, Brain & Relationship: Helping Children Heal The Post Institute Module 5 Discussion Question · Given the degree of variability, discuss your position in regards to whether it makes sense to select children for special classes for the gifted on the basis of a single test score? How else could you go about it?
Critical Review On Depression PSY 630 Psychopharmacology Ashford University May 12, 2018 Neurotransmitter and receptor theories link depression to deficiency in neurotransmission to the critical parts in the brain. Chemical imbalances in the brain are a simple explanation given to depression (Lam, 2018). These imbalances in the brain are as a result of biological, psychological and social factors. The brain uses chemicals through the nervous system to communicate with different parts of the body. Neurons communicate via neurotransmitters which is vital for effective brain functioning.
Communication chain across the neurons occurs by chemical triggers in the synapses. Depression is caused by imbalances of neurotransmitters including norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine. Antidepressants act on these transmitters and receptors to restore the balance. Serotonin controls various functions of the body that include sexual behavior, sleep, mood, and eating. A decrease in this neurotransmitter causes depression and in some cases a person could feel suicidal.
Norepinephrine deficiency causes depressed moods. People with history of repeated depression episodes have a reduced amount of this neurotransmitter hence they are vulnerable to depression. However, not all people experience depression episodes have a decline in norepinephrine. Also, depression can result from a decline in serotonin which triggers the norepinephrine levels to drop. The link between stress, norepinephrine and depression is dynamic.
In a stressful experience, the neurotransmitter enables the body to recognize and respond to it. Depression therefore occurs when the norepinephrinergic system cannot respond to a stressful situation. Dopamine on the other hand, controls the drive to seek pleasure or reward for ourselves. The lack of motivation to like the people or things we did before depression results from decline in dopamine levels (Beck & Alford, 2009). According to receptor theory, the pre- and-post synaptic sites during depression experience super-sensitivity of the beta-adregenic receptors.
The sub-sensitivity and neural compensation impacts the receptor activities. Neurotransmitter levels in the intercellular fluid affects receptor transmissions. This inhibits the production of neurotransmitters hence depression occurs. Depression symptoms occur in a lifetime, some people may experience repeated episodes. The link between symptoms and neurotransmitters can be identified.
A decline in serotonin levels could explain the various mood changes that a person experiences. Some of these behaviors include mood changes: feelings of hopelessness, frustration and sadness (CDC n. d.). Also, feeling of anger or irritability over small issues indicates low levels of the neurotransmitter. This can be treated by selective serotonin uptake inhibitors that change the levels of the neurotransmitter in the brain. Some of the drugs include Prozac and Paxil.
Reduced norepinephrine neurotransmitter affects the process in which the body reacts to stressful situations. Some of the symptoms that indicate a drop in this neurotransmitter include anxiety, restlessness and agitation. People get stressed when they are about to experience new things. It also causes slowed thinking and slurred speech often due to anxiety. In overwhelming situation, a person might experience unexplained pain such as headaches and also feelings of worthlessness and self-blame (CDC n. d.).
This can be treated by serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors that altering the quantity of the two neurotransmitters. These antidepressant drugs include nortriptyline and venlafaxine. Dopamine impacts pleasure and rewards that people seek. People derive these from different activities such as sport or drawing. Low levels of dopamine causes depression which then causes a person to lose interest in the activities that they liked before (Beck & Alford, 2009).
Some of the symptoms that indicate a drop in the neurotransmitter include the reduced concentration, tiredness, and weight loss or weight gain. The lack of motivations do be involved in interests could indicate depression. The Nonepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors are used to treat the disorder. Some of these antidepressant drugs include Wellbutrin. According to a study by UK Biobank, depression causes changes to the structure of the brain.
It found out that the white matters in the brain were altered by depression episodes. This matter enables communication between brain cells. It facilitates the processing of emotions and thoughts. The study found out that the people with depression had reduced quality of the white matter. During depression, the brain experiences changes as a cautionary measure against the severity of the symptoms.
The cerebral cortex thickens as a neuroplastic response to reduce the effects of depressive symptoms (Wasserman, 2011). The relationship between neurotransmitter and anatomic features and resultant symptoms gives an insight into the treatment of the disorder. Low levels of neurotransmitters cause the brain to produce more white matter to cushion the brain against severity of the depressive episodes. The disintegrating quality of the white matter reduces sensitivity in the brain. It inhibits transmission of signals between the grey matters.
This results in some of the symptoms of depressions that include irritability. During depression, behavioral changes can be noted in a person. These behavioral changes include agitation due to feelings of frustration and irritation. Some people hibernate when experiencing depression; they stay indoors and lack motivation to go outside. The brain structure and functions rely on complex relationships among the components of the brain.
Depression affects thoughts, feelings and behavior. It is caused by genetics, hormonal imbalance, and stress and biochemical reactions. The brain experiences changes that affect its functions. References Beck, A.T., & Alford, B. A., (2009).
Depression: Causes and Treatment. University of Pennsylvania Press CDC. (n. d.). Mental Health Conditions: Depression and Anxiety. Lam, R. W. (2018).
Depression. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Wasserman, D. (2011). Depression. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
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Influence of Nature and Nurture on Trait: Short TemperIntroduction
The interplay between nature and nurture has long been a focal point in understanding personality traits, behaviors, and emotional responses. Individual differences rooted in genetics (nature) are invariably shaped and influenced by environmental factors (nurture). This essay focuses on the trait of having a short temper, examining its origins from a genetic perspective, cultural influences, and formative childhood experiences. The discussion will provide insights into how both genetic predispositions and environmental stimuli combine to shape this emotional response.
Nature: Genetic Influences on Temper
From a biological standpoint, aggression and temperament are partly governed by genetics. Research indicates that individual temperamental differences in children can be traced back to genetic predispositions (Stevenson-Hinde & Hinde, 1993). For example, the presence of certain alleles related to the serotonin transporter gene (5-HTTLPR) has been associated with impulsivity and aggressive behavior. Individuals with short alleles of this gene are found to be more temperamentally reactive and may display traits such as irritability more readily (Lesch et al., 1996).
Additionally, twin studies suggest that heritability plays a role in temperament and emotional regulation. Identical twins tend to show more similarity in traits such as aggression and emotional stability compared to fraternal twins, suggesting a significant genetic component in our predisposition toward having a short temper (Reed, 2005).
Moreover, neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine influence mood regulation and aggression. Lower levels of serotonin have been convincingly linked to increased irritability and impulsiveness (Dahl et al., 2007). This could imply that genetic factors contributing to neurochemical imbalances may exacerbate the tendency toward a short temper.
Nurture: Environmental Influences on Temper
While genetics may predispose someone to exhibit a short temper, environmental factors also play a crucial role in its development. The family environment, cultural background, and childhood experiences significantly shape emotional responses. An individual who grows up in a household where anger and frustration are frequently exhibited may learn to mimic these emotional expressions.
Cultural influences are also noteworthy. In some cultures, an outward display of anger may be more acceptable or even normative, while in others, it might be considered inappropriate. For instance, in collectivist cultures, emotional restraint is often valued, and individuals might be less likely to display their temper (Markus & Kitayama, 1991). Conversely, cultures that endorse individualism may promote the expression of emotions, leading to a heightened propensity for outburst behaviors.
Childhood experiences also play a pivotal role in shaping how a person manages and expresses anger. Experiences of exposure to parental conflict, for instance, could normalize responsiveness to stress with anger (Thompson & Raikes, 2005). Additionally, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), such as abuse or neglect, can significantly distort emotional regulation capabilities, prompting aggressive responses in stress-inducing situations (Felitti et al., 1998).
Moreover, learned behavior through observation can influence one’s temper. Children often imitate their caregivers; if one’s parents react to frustration with a short temper, a child may adopt similar responses, thereby perpetuating a cycle of reactive behavior (Bandura, 1977). Furthermore, if a child internalizes aggressive behavioral models, it may lead to maladaptive coping strategies stemming from their familial influence.
The Interplay of Nature and Nurture
Understanding the roots of a short temper requires an appreciation of the dynamic interplay between genetics and environment. Studies show that individuals with certain genetic predispositions may be more vulnerable to environmental stressors, revealing a compelling synergy between nature and nurture. For example, an individual genetically predisposed to heightened emotional responses may only exhibit a short temper when exposed to significant stressors or toxic environments (Caspi et al., 2003).
This underscores the importance of a supportive environment in nurturing emotional resilience and managing temper. On the converse, a nurturing environment can potentially mitigate the genetic influences that might predispose someone to react with anger or irritability.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the trait of a short temper exemplifies the complex interplay between nature and nurture. Genetic predispositions provide the biological foundation upon which behavioral tendencies can develop, while environmental factors—including cultural context and formative experiences—serve as powerful modulators of these innate tendencies. Recognizing and understanding these influences is essential for effectively addressing behavioral issues, particularly in therapeutic and educational settings. By appreciating both the genetic and environmental components that contribute to a short temper, individuals can work towards improving emotional regulation and building healthier coping mechanisms.
References
1. Bandura, A. (1977). Social Learning Theory. Prentice Hall.
2. Caspi, A., Sugden, K., Moffitt, T. E., Taylor, A., Craig, I. W., Harrington, H., & Poulton, R. (2003). Influence of Life Stress on Depression: Moderation by a Polymorphism in the 5-HTT Gene. Science, 301(5631), 386-389.
3. Dahl, R. E., Ryan, N. D., & Haggerty, R. J. (2007). Neurobiology of Childhood Disorders: Impact of Serotonin on Temperament and Outcome. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 46(5), 598-606.
4. Felitti, V. J., Anda, R. F., Nordenberg, D., Williamson, D. F., Sullivan, L., & Spitzer, R. L. (1998). Relationship of Childhood Abuse and Household Dysfunction to Many of the Leading Causes of Death in Adults: The Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Study. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 14(4), 245-258.
5. Lesch, K. P., Bengel, K., Heils, A., Sabol, S. Z., & Wolozin, B. L. (1996). Association of Anxiety-Related Traits with a Polymorphism in the Serotonin Transporter Gene Regulatory Region. Science, 274(5292), 1527-1531.
6. Markus, H. R., & Kitayama, S. (1991). Culture and the Self: Implications for Cognition, Emotion, and Motivation. Psychological Review, 98(2), 224-253.
7. Reed, J. (2005). Temperament and Personality: An Evolutionary Perspective. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 88(1), 188-206.
8. Stevenson-Hinde, J., & Hinde, R. A. (1993). Temperament and Attachment. Child Development, 64(1), 36-47.
9. Thompson, R. A., & Raikes, H. (2005). The Role of Family in Children’s Social and Emotional Development. Journal of Family Psychology, 19(3), 274-284.
10. Wasserman, D. (2011). Depression. Oxford: Oxford University Press.