Heredity, Hormones, and Human Behavior

Heredity, Hormones, and Human Behavior Thomas Bullard University of Phoenix BEH 225 Wayne Rhode March 5, 2009 In this essay I will explore heredity and hormones. I will compare and contrast the influence of heredity and hormones on people’s behavior. How does heredity and hormones work together or with the human body? I will also explore the endocrine system, identify hormones, and glands. Also identify what glands secret what. Heredity and Hormones Heredity is the transmission of characteristics from parents to children through the influence of genes (Clayman, 1993). Heredity was first discovered in the mid 1800’s; however, scientists did not fully understand genes and how they interacted with heredity until almost one hundred years later. Deoxyribonucleic Acid, also known as DNA, is the basic carrier of our genetic makeup. Some traits, such as eye color, are the direct result of the genes we inherit. Other traits, such as intelligence, are influenced by environmental factors. Hormones are secretions that are released from different glands in the body such as the pituitary and thyroid. They dissolve in the body fluids and are carried to wherever they are needed. Hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone, are responsible for many bodily functions like growth, metabolism, and reproduction. Hormones also play a big role in behavior and mood. Hormones and heredity effect human behavior. We have been shaped by attitudes, values, and beliefs, but how we react to an experience is directly related to hormones and family history. When talking about heredity, we are talking about genes that were passed down from our parents that we cannot control. Every individual is unique and heredity and hormones play a big role in that. The Endocrine System The Endocrine System is a key player in incorporating complex psychological reactions. The endocrine glands release chemical substances called hormones that are carried throughout the body in the bloodstream (Morris,...