Behavioral genetics is the study of

• A. determining how much of behavior is the result of genetic inheritance and how much is due to personal experience.
• B. dominant genes in behavioral traits.
• C. operant conditioning.
• D. heredity.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Begin by understanding the field of behavioral genetics, which focuses on the interplay between genetic inheritance and environmental factors in shaping behavior.
2. Recognize that behavioral genetics aims to quantify the extent to which genetic factors contribute to individual differences in behavior, as opposed to environmental influences.
3. Consider the methodologies used in behavioral genetics, such as twin studies, adoption studies, and family studies, which help disentangle the effects of genetics and environment.
4. Reflect on the concept of heritability, which is a statistical estimate that indicates how much of the variation in a trait within a population can be attributed to genetic differences.
5. Understand that behavioral genetics does not focus solely on dominant genes or operant conditioning, but rather on the broader question of how genetic and environmental factors interact to influence behavior.