Abstract
One of the oldest arguments in psychology is whether behaviour is a
product of inherited factors (nature) or due to acquired life
experiences (nurture)? The debate is over and the answer is nature and
nurture! Advances have been made in behavioural genetics during recent
years with the growing evidence for the role of genes in shaping our
behaviour. Research clearly shows that it is both variation in our DNA
(‘nature’) and the social and physical environments (‘nurture’)
to which we are exposed which combine to influence the development of
normal human behaviours and psychiatric disorders. This lecture will
introduce you to the research methods used to investigate genetic and
environmental factors, and how we measure the interaction between genes
and environment. Identifying the mechanisms and biology underlying the
interplay between nature and nurture is essential if we to understand
psychiatric disorders and unlock successful treatments and even
prevention of these devastating and disabling conditions. Bio
Dr Cathy Fernandes is a Senior Lecturer & Divisional Education Lead,
Psychology and Systems Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology &
Neuroscience (IoPPN), King's College London. Dr Fernandes has over 20
years' experience working with animal models of behaviour, environment,
pharmacology and genetics. She has been responsible for developing new
methods at the institute, including using microarrays for gene
expression, and establishing a mouse behavioural testing unit to assess
a wide range of behaviours related to psychiatric disorders. She has
more than 17 years of teaching experience ranging from undergraduate to
specialist courses.