Question

Begin by briefly describing Scarr’s theory of genotype-environment correlations. Then think about ways of illustrating the three types of correlations by focusing on the key “player” in each correlation (e.g., parents for passive effects).

Can you tell me what Scarrs therory of genotype environment is and who the key player would be in each of the three types?

Answer 1

Scarr’s theory states that genotypes can determine an individual's response to a certain environment, and that these genotype-environment pairs can affect human development. The model recognized three types of gene-environment correlations:

• Passive: During infancy, a child’s environment is provided by the parents. The rearing environment reflects the parents’ genetic preferences. The environment is the key player at this stage.
• Evocative: Environments respond to individuals based on the genes they express. Infants and adolescents evoke social and physical responses from their environments through this interaction. The environment and the individual’s response to it determine development.
• Active: Individuals selectively attend to aspects of their environment that correlate to their specific genotypes and autonomously choose environments to interact with. Their selections are based on motivational, personality, and intellectual aspects of their genotype.