Genetic and Environmental Influences

on the Brain.


Shannon Smith
EDU 417 Cognitive Studies Capstone
Instructor: Ciara Smack



We sometimes wonder why our kids act the way they do. Some might say that the wa the act is
natural and others say that act a certain way because of the, "who and what", within their
surroundings. Actually, the way they behave is a combination of both; genetic and environment.
Introduction
Behavior:

- The way in which one acts or conducts himself towards others.
-Actions
-Demeanor
Nature vs. Nurture

-Genetic contributions
-Environmental factors
parenting styles
learned experiences


Neurotransmitters
Chemical agents released by neurons (nerve cells).
Stimulate other nerve cells, throughout the nervous system

Types of Neurotransmitters:

1. Acetylcholine
2. Amino acids: Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and Glycine
Glutamate Aspartate.
3. Neuropeptides: Oxytocin,endorphins, vasopressin, etc.
4. Monoamines: Epinephrine, norepinephrine, histamine, dopamine and
serotonin.
5. Purines: Adenosine, ATP.
6. Lipids and gases: Nitric oxide, cannabinoids
Dopamine,
Feel good
High levels may cause anxiety, fear, intense motivation, and goal-directed behaviors
Produced in the brain stem

Serotonin,
Impacted by nature-nurture interactions
Can heighten memory, and help protect brain cells from excitotoxicity
Found in the intestines

Acetylcholine
Deficiencies are associated with memory loss
Can impair cognitive brain functions
produced and used all over the brain

Serotonin and Dopamine must be constantly rebalanced
in the brain.

Health amounts of sleep, movement, and nutrition
produces health neurochemical productions by:
Alleviating Stress
Allow one to adapt to a rapidly changing
environment
Help in fighting common environmental
factors such as toxins can cause limits to
these factors


-Alleviating Stress
-Allow one to adapt to a rapidly changing environment

Many common environmental factors such as toxins can cause limits to
these factors
Knowing how the brain constantly changes can help you give your child a greater chance at
academic success. Using age appropriate technology to learn about neuroplasticity and how
your childs behavior is influenced is a good way for parents to relate to their children.
References:
Behavior, (2014). Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary
Neurotransmitter. (2013). Encyclopaedia Britannica
Schore, A. N. (2001). Effects of a secure attachment relationship on right brain
development, affect regulation, and infant mental health. Infant Mental Health
Journal, 22(1/2), 7-66.
Wolfe, P. (2010).Brain matters: Translating research into classroom practice. (2nd ed.).