How Genes and Environment Shape Development — Summary of Chapter 3 from The Developing Person Through the Life Span
How Genes and Environment Shape Development — Summary of Chapter 3 from The Developing Person Through the Life Span How much of who we are is determined by our DNA? How do external factors like nutrition or culture interact with genetics? Chapter 3 of Kathleen Stassen Berger’s The Developing Person Through the Life Span explores the fascinating relationship between genes, environment, and human development. This chapter provides essential insights into how genetic blueprints and life experiences collaborate to shape individual traits, behaviors, and health outcomes. Watch the full summary above or read below for a detailed breakdown of key concepts, from DNA to epigenetics to ethical debates around gene editing. The Blueprint: Genes and DNA At the foundation of human development are genes —segments of DNA located on chromosomes . Humans have 46 chromosomes arranged in 23 pairs. Each gene may exist in different forms, known as alleles , which lead to variations in traits s...