Which statement best describes the "nurture" perspective?

Study for the University of Central Florida EXP3604 Cognitive Psychology Final Exam. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations to prepare effectively. Ace your exam!

The "nurture" perspective emphasizes the significant role that environmental factors, experiences, and cultural contexts play in shaping behavior and mental processes. This view suggests that individuals are not solely products of their genetics or biology, but rather that their development is heavily influenced by their surrounding environment, including social interactions, cultural norms, and life experiences.

For instance, the way a child learns language can be significantly affected by their social environment, as the interactions they have and the culture they grow up in will determine the language skills and nuances they acquire. This perspective underscores the importance of educational experiences, parenting styles, and cultural values in forming an individual's behavior and personality traits.

In contrast, other options focus on aspects such as inherited traits, instinctual behavior, or emotional responses, which are more aligned with the "nature" perspective or holistic models that do not exclusively emphasize nurture. The clarity of the nurture perspective lies in its focal point: the environment's role in development is paramount, indicating that behavior is not merely a result of genetics or biological programming but is also significantly influenced by external factors and experiences.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy