Coming in as a first year student this FIQWS class has allowed me to realize how important writing is and how much my writing skills have improved. Not only by the content of the writing but how easier and efficient writing has become. Through this course I have realized that this positive and encouraging environment has definitely made a huge impact on the efficiency of my writing and critical thinking. Due to the leniency received from the teachers I have realized my essays now hold more depth and understanding when they are not rushed. Even with my peers I have realized that they all are very understanding and more efficient with their work and helping me with my own. Throughout this course I have been more aware of how important college readiness is. From writing more excessively to being prepared and ready for class. Both have taught me how different every environment that I experience will be. Overall this course has not only prepared and bettered my writing skills but also allowed me to be accustomed to my surroundings. 

Going back to my essays I’ve written throughout this course, I strongly believe my research essay was my best work. Reflecting on my research essay I can say it was only my best work because it was on a topic that I was highly confident in and a writing style that needed more than one source of evidence. I was aware that I needed to make my essay lengthy but also that everything had to tie into one another. To do so, I tried my best to make a list of topics that I wanted to research and explore before I started writing. Making this list allowed me to put more into my writing and give even more information and background on my topic. Throughout the essay I didn’t want to just talk about what Nature and Nurture is, I wanted to include why it was important and how the initial argument started. Including ideas like this in my writing made it more efficient and more like a research essay. I really enjoyed deep diving into topics and ideas to help me lengthen and better my essay which is why I consider it one of my best works but also my preferred writing style. 

My personal essay was also on my favorite writing pieces in this course. Though I don’t consider it one of my best works, I still believe I put a lot of effort into it. The personal essay itself was very difficult to maneuver through. Since it wasn’t based on anything we learned throughout the course it took a lot for me to start figuring out what to write and when. I decided to write about my experience with my culture but that topic still has trial and error because it is something I am currently still figuring out. Throughout the essay I tried to include more examples and stories than opinions but it was very hard doing so. I was speaking about my own experiences and cultural things that many people were not aware of. Knowing this I included different perspectives about the culture from social media to back up my opinion. Overall the essay gave me a good idea on how to work with more personal topics but also how to focus on the message without making it all about me. 

Though I don’t think my analysis essay was my best work, it was very fun to research and create a slideshow on a topic I learned from my lecture. Throughout the essay I included multiple examples of how my topic became effective. Though I did this, the essay still didn’t have a pull factor so it was just a bunch of research that I was explaining. Regardless, my analysis essay was really easy to get done especially due to the teacher having us present it as a slideshow. Even creating the slide show was easy because it was on the essay I already submitted. The only hardship I had was trying to make the slideshow interesting and fun enough to present to the class. Once I found a good way to do so, my focus was how I was going to present it. The way I presented my slideshow wasn’t my best because I knew I was really nervous and didn’t really know what to say. I believe I could have done way better but overall for the analysis essay being one the first big assignments I think I tried my best and put a lot of effort into it.

Exploring the causes that shape our identity and behavior has been one of psychology’s most enduring debates. The key question is whether our traits and behaviors arise mainly from our genetic makeup or from the environments and experiences we encounter. There is no definitive answer, as both elements play significant roles in shaping an individual. Research has shown that instead of viewing Nature and Nurture as opposing forces, psychologists now emphasize an interactionist approach. This perspective expresses that genetics provide a blueprint while the environment shapes or suppresses those genetic tendencies. Ultimately,  human behavior and development cannot be relied on either nature or nurture, rather both influences interact in complex ways to shape who we become. 

   The concept of nature versus nurture originated in the 19th century with philosopher Francis Galton. He explored how both hereditary factors and environmental conditions contribute to qualities such as intelligence and personality. Galton argued that human traits are primarily determined by heredity meaning he believed human traits are shaped by genetic factors (nature). He advocated for the practice of Eugenics to improve the human population by encouraging those who were ‘intelligent’ to reproduce. Eugenics refers to a set of discredited and inaccurate beliefs and practices that aim to improve the genetic quality of the human species through selective breeding. Eugenicists believed that societal ills such as poverty, criminality, and mental illness were inherited and could be eliminated from the gene pool. This ideology was embraced by many scientists, politicians, and public figures in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, who presented it as a legitimate science. Francis Galton’s work completely emphasized heredity over environmental factors which allowed him to propose methods like the twin study to investigate the relative influence. While many philosophers have explored Galton’s views on the balance between heredity and environment, they do not support the Eugenic principles tied to his theories. Like John Locke, he believed that individuals are born as ‘blank slates,’ or what he referred to as Tabula Rasa. He argued that people are shaped by experience or environmental influences (nurture). In his perspective, parents serve as “rational tutors,” who are responsible for crafting a child’s environment. Using his philosophy of Empiricism he theorized that all knowledge comes from parents guiding their children’s development and shaping their ideas through reason and example. He emphasized that the environment has its strongest influence in early childhood, a period when the brain is still developing and experiences are almost entirely shaped by the home. While this perspective highlights the importance of nurture, it also acknowledges that innate factors still play a crucial role in shaping the course of a person’s life. The question is, how much of our behavior is inherited? 

   The influence of inherited biological and genetic factors are considered to be the Nature of your being. This involves the genetic traits we are born with, along with other inherited factors, which shape our personalities and influence our growth throughout life, from early childhood to adulthood. Traits such as intelligence and mental health are conditions that are mainly inherited and shaped by our DNA and not experiences. Therefore biological factors are measurable and offer reliable explanations for one’s behavior. Nature studies reveal to psychologists that there are strong genetic components for specific conditions. Various research such as ‘Twin Studies’ have proven that Nature plays a valid role in the development of who we are. “Characteristics and differences that are not observable at birth, but which emerge later in life, are regarded as the product of maturation” Nature vs. Nurture Debate In Psychology- Simply Psychology. Though nature is considered to be traits that one is born with, behaviors can develop and be suppressed over time. External factors which influence a person’s development refers to Nurture in psychology. It is the non-genetic factor, highlighting how our views, attitudes, and development are shaped by experiences, education, and outside circumstances. It plays a crucial role in developing social and emotional skills, building resilience, and impacting mental and physical well-being. Nurturing environments and experiences, such as positive parenting, supportive relationships, and effective education, foster healthy growth and are critical for unlocking an individual’s potential. “The concept of nurture highlights the importance of social environments – who you are with and not who you are born to – and its significant influence on social and emotional skills, wellbeing and behaviour.” What Is Nuture -NurtureUK. By stressing the effectiveness of Nurture, the quote reminds us that positive environments can help individuals thrive, while negative surroundings can delay healthy development. Ultimately, it reinforces the idea that who we become is deeply influenced by the quality of the social world around us. Researchers have acknowledged how effective and significant the roles of Nature and Nurture play within the development of Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD), highlighting how the interaction between inherited traits and life experiences can significantly affect an individual’s behavioral patterns. Antisocial personality disorder is a mental health condition that causes harmful behaviors without remorse. Nature and Nurture both play a significant role in the development of ASPD, interacting with each other rather than acting independently. A person’s genetic predisposition (nature) is a key factor, but it is combined with environmental influences like a history of childhood abuse, neglect, or a dysfunctional family environment (nurture). These factors can trigger the development of ASPD in those with a genetic vulnerability.

   Many studies have explored which genetics and environmental factors shape traits, behaviors, and psychological disorders. For example, twin studies have reliable evidence, expressing the significant role both Nature and Nurture play. Providing researchers with valuable insights into the reliability of this ongoing debate. Twin studies work by comparing how alike identical twins are versus how alike fraternal twins are so researchers can determine the efficiency of a trait. The studies give us an insight on how to compare the influence of Nature and Nurture. An effective and popular twin study that has been highlighted throughout psychology is the The Minnesota Study of Twins Reared Apart (MISTRA) directed by Thomas J. Bouchard. MISTRA was a long term study from 1979-1999 that examined the relative influences of genetics and environment on human development by comparing identical and fraternal twins who were raised separately. This study was conducted by bringing sets of identical twins who were raised apart to a lab for broad medical and psychological assessments. It involved 137 pairs of twins, including 81 identical pairs and 56 fraternal pairs. These assessments included IQ, personality, and physiological tests, as well as life history and psychiatric interviews. The twins also independently completed questionnaires, under supervision from a staff member. The staff do not mention any details about the questions they asked twins during those examinations. The staff explain that the twins performed three different IQ measurements, including the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS), which involved administering a set of six verbal and five performance subtests to the twins at the same time in different rooms. Researchers then used statistical analysis to compare their findings to determine the influence of genetics versus environment on various traits. The goal was to find similarities and differences in their traits to determine the relative impact of genetics and environment. The study concluded that genetic factors are a major influence on a person’s development and that identical twins raised separately were as similar in many traits as those raised together. This included similarities in personality, career interests, and intelligence. Twin studies are a key method for understanding the balance between Nature and Nurture because they compare how similar identical twins, who share nearly all their genes, are to fraternal twins, who share about half. By examining twins raised together and sometimes even apart, scientists can estimate how much of a trait like personality, or mental health is shaped by inherited factors versus life experiences. 

   Nature and nurture influence not only everyday human traits and behaviors but also the behaviors seen in personality disorders like psychopathy and sociopathy. Psychopathy is largely considered a result of Nature (genetics and brain abnormalities), while Sociopathy is more heavily influenced by Nurture (environmental factors like trauma and abuse). But both conditions involve characteristics of both genetic predispositions and environmental factors. Psychopathy is a personality disorder characterized by a lack of empathy, shallow emotions, manipulation, and antisocial behavior. It is believed that psychopathy can stem from psychological differences or brain abnormalities. Studies express that a heritable link is related to the aggression and emotional processing that psychopaths experience. Twin studies also have proven that identical twins are more similar in psychotic traits supporting the influence genetic factors (nature) has on personality disorders. However, environmental factors interact with genetic predispositions. “Psychopaths sometimes have a genetic predisposition that makes them the way they are”- Both DNA and upbringing can determine whether a child will grow up to be a psychopath –Business Insider. For example, harsh parenting or abuse in early childhood. These conditions can lead to the development of psychopathic traits. Various research has suggested that environmental factors could be more influential in certain aspects of psychopathy such as social deviance. 

Sociopathy on the other hand is a mental health condition characterized by a disregard for the rights and feelings of others, a lack of empathy, and manipulative or deceitful behavior. A combination of genetic and environmental factors is believed to contribute to the development of sociopathy. Research suggests that genetic factors related to brain chemistry, like serotonin and dopamine, may be involved. A familial history of ASPD can increase the likelihood of developing sociopath traits (nature). However, environmental factors, such as a history of childhood abuse, harsh discipline, poor supervision, or a disrupted family life can increase the risk (nurture). Sociopathy is often described as being “learned” over time through environmental influences, especially if there is no innate capacity for empathy. “The callous, self-centered attitude common in ASPD could be a coping mechanism resulting in part from the inability to rely on parents for security.” Can Someone Be Born A Sociopath? Exploring Antisocial Personality Disorder -BetterHelp. While genetics may play a role by creating a predisposition, environmental influences are considered the most significant trigger for developing sociopathic traits. Growing up with emotional or physical harm can prevent a child from developing healthy models of trust and empathy, leading them to adopt a coping mechanism of callousness and manipulation. The concept of nature and nurture within psychopathy and sociopathy suggest that genetic predispositions interact with environmental factors in complex ways to influence development. Explaining why both sociopathy and psychopathy are used to describe behaviors associated with ASPD. 

   The longstanding debate over nature and nurture continues to shape our understanding of human behavior, but modern research helps us understand neither factor alone can fully explain why we become who we are. Both genetics and environment allow us to accept and choose how we decide to view ourselves and live within experience. Historical perspectives such as Galtons give us an idea of how much the idea of human development has shifted over time. At the same time, they allow us to see how opposed beliefs can be moved to unbiased, reciprocal ideals. Ultimately, human development is the result of an ongoing, dynamic relationship between biology and environment. Neither nature nor Nurture operate alone. They continually influence each other throughout an individual’s life. Recognizing this not only advances psychological research but also encourages more informed approaches to understanding behavior. By appreciating how genes and experiences work together, we gain a more accurate and humane perspective on what shapes individuals. Which is why no single factor can fully determine the course of a human life.

“Foreigner” refers to someone not belonging to a particular place or group. It’s a noun that is used world wide and has an unchangeable definition. But for me, being called a “Farrina” by my own people, makes the word hold more meaning than it actually has. In the Jamaican culture there are many unsaid rules that everyone can agree with. Jamaicans hold a lot of pride within their family, and themselves, and in a way, this pride shapes their opinion. They are especially taught that the culture including music, language, lifestyle, etc. is superior to others. The majority of Jamaicans believe that you are either fully Jamaican (born and raised) or not at all, there are no mixed, halves or quarters. Thus, creating a stigma put on Jamaican- Americans that they are not considered a “real” Jamaican due to the lack of familiarity with their customs. However, that is something that us “foreigners” cannot control. They tend to fail to realize that isolating us as “the foreigners” but not allowing us to be familiar is the root of the problem. When I was younger, growing up as a first generation Jamaican- American was not difficult. I’ve always been immersed in my family and constantly surrounded by our culture. I easily connect with others who share the experience of growing up in a Jamaican household, so I’ve never felt out of place. My heritage has always felt natural and familiar to me, thanks to my mother. She has always taught me that just because I was born in America, being Jamaican is a blessing that I should claim no matter what people tell me. So growing up with this mentally, when visiting the island I have always felt like I was truly home. Experiencing the natural beauty and authentic spirit of the culture, food, music and people, has always deeply resonated with me, strengthening my passion for my identity even from a young age. I have visited and stayed in Jamaica multiple times, allowing me to have many different experiences and connections with the island. Since I usually stay with family when I travel to Jamaica, I am not surprised by the changes in living conditions. However, when I spent a summer living there, I experienced an intense culture shock. Even at a young age, the sudden change in environment had a strong impact on my body. Since my immune system was accustomed to the American lifestyle, the local food and water did not set well with my body. For the first time, I felt like I didn’t truly belong there. It was heartbreaking to feel as if the place I loved most was rejecting me, and I was devastated when I had to return home, leaving behind the friends and family I had grown so close to. Despite my initial feelings, I knew that I would continue to travel to Jamaica frequently because of my mother, therefore I always looked forward to the next trip. 

As I grew older and began visiting the island more often, family friends started engaging with me more in conversation. They would usually ask about what life is like in America and whether I enjoy being in Jamaica. I didn’t mind the questions themselves, but the remarks that followed were often backhanded. I was frequently teased for what I said or how I said it because of my “American accent.” But experiencing these comments weren’t limited to being in Jamaica itself. Jamaicans use the term Yankee to refer to Americans in a derogatory way. But to them it doesn’t seem derogatory at all. Through the media, I and others have been called a “yankee” for being open about being Jamaican-American. But it’s more than just being called a yankee through social media. Beyond that, there are ongoing discussions about whether people like me are truly accepted as Jamaicans. This isn’t just a Jamaican issue, I’ve noticed similar stigmas in other Caribbean cultures toward first-generation Americans. Recognizing that this mindset extends beyond my own culture and family has helped me approach the criticism differently. Constantly hearing how others view my ethnic identity has made me question where I truly belong and, at times, has caused me to pull away from my culture. Still, it has also taught me to separate the negativity from the pride and love I have for my roots. Hearing different opinions about whether I’m truly Jamaican has taught me to stay true to what I believe in. My family has played a major role in that realization. They always encouraged me to take pride in my Jamaican heritage, but they never made me feel like I had to choose between identities. With them, I’ve always felt accepted as Jamaican and that sense of belonging means the most to me. I believe that if you want your children to truly connect with their cultural roots, you have to intentionally make them feel familiar with it, not foreign. 

The study of the human mind, behavior and mental processes will always be the universal definition of psychology. Due to the vast amount of subfields psychology holds, it can never just be limited to the basic study of humans. Psychology is the study of anything and everything, limited to nothing. Though many subfields express this statement, Observational Research is used under naturalistic observation to learn the ways of beings other than humans such as animals. Naturalistic observation is one of many tools used in psychology. It’s especially valuable in the early stages of research when forming hypotheses or when it’s unethical to intervene in the environment, which makes it perfect to study organic behaviors without question. It is a research method where behaviors are studied in their natural settings without intervention or manipulation by the observer. Naturalistic observation is described as one of the most valuable tools used in psychology and proven to be so in many ways. 

Providing authentic insights is an essential factor in psychology. It is a practice that can never be judged or replaced but evaluated and used in many beneficial ways. Naturalistic Observation is heavily associated with high ecological validity due to its authenticity in psychology research. High Ecological Validity is the study on whether or not a study’s research is applicable, resourceful, and represents real world situations, assuming the research closely mimics everyday life. Research with high ecological validity is crucial because it ensures that what was observed is useful; allowing the study to be generalized and focused on what is relevant. Naturalistic Observation becomes convenient due to its use of ethical yet crucial studying methods which is idolized in psychology. The vast ways to collect data using this method allow researchers to examine complex events that cannot be replicated in a lab. A non-replicable data collection method used in naturalistic observation is audio visual recordings. Although other observer narratives include taking thorough notes on activities as they occur, audiovisual recordings offer objective, in-depth documentation. Researchers use hidden or overt audio and video equipment to capture behavior in a subject’s natural setting. This method provides a permanent, objective record of events that can be reviewed and analyzed multiple times, reducing researcher bias and allowing detailed examination of subtle behaviors. While Naturalistic Observation is useful for examining an environment, it also has significant advantages for behavioral implications. Animal, child, and consumer behavior become rational examples when using naturalistic observation to have a better insight on psychology. 

In psychology, behavioral research is essential for describing, explaining, predicting, and changing individual behaviors and mental processes with the ultimate goal of improving both the social world and individual well-being. By understanding the underlying causes and patterns of behavior through observation, experimentation, and analysis, psychologists can develop strategies to enhance performance in various settings. Using Naturalistic Observation when studying behavior can provide insight on cause-effect relationships. Researchers may gather information on living circumstances without altering the surroundings, bringing the nature vs nurture debate back into the spotlight. Undeniably, behavioral research methods vary due to what kind of data you want and from which community it needs to be collected. Similar to fields like biology, psychologists like Jane Goodall, use naturalistic observation to study animal behavior in their native habitats. Jane’s studies consist of how chimpanzees make/use tools, hunt/eat, and indisputably have social/emotional lives. Her research on the behaviors of the chimpanzees overturned the scientific view that those traits were exclusively human. Using long term naturalistic observation Jane watched the chimpanzees without interfering but slowly immersing herself into their habitat. Doing so allowed the animals to grow accustomed to her presence, and stop viewing her as a threat, thus allowing her to observe close up without altering them. Her work established a new perspective on naturalistic observation by highlighting the value of a research that offers thorough documentation without intervention or specific techniques.

 Naturalistic observation has played a vital role in the development of psychology by allowing researchers to study behavior  or in its real world context. Unlike controlled experiments, naturalistic observation captures authentic actions and interactions, providing valuable insights into how individuals truly behave outside of artificial settings. This method has contributed to our understanding of a wide range of psychological procedures, from child development to animal behaviors. The use of Naturalistic Observation ability to reveal subtle, often overlooked aspects of human influences. It helps psychologists form hypotheses in reality and often serves as the starting point for further experimental research. By observing without interference, psychologists gain a clearer, more honest view of how individuals think, feel, and act, making it a powerful tool for both scientific discovery and practical application.

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