ESSAYS – digital portfolio :)

INTRODUCTORY LETTER

IRENE QUINTERO

ENGLISH 21003

PROF. ZAYAS

FEB. 14, 2022

AN ODYSSEY, YOU OUGHT TO SEE

“There is a time for many words, and there is also a time for sleep.” This quote written in The Odyssey by Homer, an ancient Greek author and poet, could not be more accurate in describing myself. It is true, the talkative gene did not skip my generation. I have been blessed or cursed; depending on how you look at it, with a mouth that may appear to be a broken faucet, and when it has been repaired, and there is a moment of silence, it is most likely because I have fallen asleep. From getting in trouble in class for excessive talking (which is ironic because I do not enjoy public speaking), to falling asleep five minutes into a car ride, these have always been my two most well-known characteristics, but there is a lot more to me than that, I promise.

As children, we are frequently asked, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” My initial thought would be about my dream job, and I would list things like doctor, dancer, FBI agent, and everything else you can think of. However, as I grew older, I realized that the question we should be asking each other should be, “Who do you want to be?” And it is at this point that we begin to think beyond our profession. “What causes me to wake up in the morning?” What makes me the person I am today? “What do I bring into the world?” While answering all these questions at once may seem overwhelming, it is critical to understand that we do not have all the answers in a blink of an eye. Everything has its time.

To begin, despite my age, there have been a few major events in my life that have defined or are defining me as a person. I was about thirteen years old when I enrolled in a junior lifeguarding course where I was the only girl. We were doing a deep-water rescue simulation in which one had to dive and lift the “drowning” victim, who was roughly twice my size, from an 18-foot-deep pool while wearing weights. I recall the uncertainty that arose in my mind when I heard the instructions. There was no way I was going to finish this task, I told myself as more doubt crept in. When the coach called on me to complete the task, I took deep breaths and told myself that I could do it. Everything happened so quickly, but the sound of clapping and cheering as I swam to the surface was something I’ll never forget. This brief moment had such an enormous impact on me because it taught me that no matter how big or heavy life’s circumstances are if I have courage, faith, and determination, I will be able to keep moving forward until I reach the surface once again.

During the last two years, this lesson has been extremely beneficial. Of course, COVID-19 was a rollercoaster ride for the world, full of every emotion imaginable. On top of that, it was also the end of my high school career and the beginning of college, and it slapped me in the face that it was time for me to grow up. I will admit that I was a little nervous about starting this new chapter in my life because of the changes and challenges that would come with it, but I couldn’t help but feel a rush of excitement at the opportunity of gradually becoming more independent.

Obviously, we may have to wait a few years to reach our destination, but these experiences help us form an image of what reality looks like. Through these bumps in the road, I’ve learned more about my weaknesses as well as my strengths. And how did I find out about this, you might ask? Through discussions with others. (Hey, maybe my blabbermouth does come in handy every now and then.) But, on a more serious note, I enjoy talking with people about their life stories and journeys because it fosters a connection in which thoughts are shared, wisdom is instilled, and voices are heard. It has assisted me in identifying areas where I can improve or eliminate certain behaviors completely, for which I am extremely grateful.

As I work on this new chapter of my life, I hope to gain knowledge that will benefit those who come after me and those who surround me, or at the very least, share my journey with them. For the time being, however, I will continue to learn more about myself and cherish the lessons I learn along the way because learning is a process, an odyssey that lasts a lifetime.

LITERATURE REVIEW (OUTLINE DRAFT)

IRENE QUINTERO

ENGLISH 21003

PROF. ZAYAS

MARCH 23, 2022

REVIEW OF LITERATURE: DRAFT OUTLINE

TOPIC: The Psychological Effects of Adoption on the Child: Reactive Attachment Disorder

“INTRO”: (Start board: Child Psychology)

The discipline of psychology involved with the systematic study of individual behavior, adjustment, and growth from birth through adolescence, as well as the treatment of behavioral, mental, and emotional disorders

REFERENCE: “Understanding adoption, A developmental approach” (ARTICLE)

Explain the perspective of a child adoptee, and expand on how they are able to understand adoption during a each developmental stage
- Explain a surface level type of analysis of how normal childhood issues of attachment, loss and self-image can be more complex within adopted children

Start to get more specific > emotional disorders > Reactive Attachment Disorder

What is Reactive Attachment Disorder?
- Reactive attachment disorder (RAD) is a condition in which a child fails to form healthy emotional bonds with his or her caregivers (parental figures), often as a result of early emotional neglect or abuse

Children with RAD have a difficult time controlling their emotions. They find it difficult to develop meaningful relationships with others.

“BODY PARAGRAPHS”:

“Adopting Children with Attachment Problems”

Explain the ”successful adoption” : how and why the adopted child will gradually, develop a secure attachment with his or her new family

Most children are, in fact, able to form such bonds and the resulting attachment becomes the foundation for both their integration into the family

Explore the reasons and negative effects when a child doesn’t “integrate successfully into the family” more of the emotional/ behavior patterns and changes

Significant attachment problems manifest fairly typical behavioral patterns, which, in turn, tend to elicit fairly common responses from their parent
- Such children may have little or no understanding about what constitutes a parent-child bond or the interest a parent has in acting upon the child’s best interests

Summarizes the actions needed to increase the probability that children with attachment disorders can be successfully adopted

Explain how psychological treatment and other post adoption services necessary to support the adoption and the child’s ability to successfully form a secure attachment with the adoptive parents

”A fragile bond: adoptive parents’ experiences of caring for children with a diagnosis of reactive attachment disorder”

Purpose of the study: Understanding how adoptive parents caring for children with reactive attachment disorder (RAD) make sense of their life-worlds by establishing the meanings that frame and structure their everyday experiences

Explain the experiment that was conducted; briefly go over the different section but focus on the conversations and comment the parents had in regards to their parent-child relationship

Direct to the primary impact on the participants (psychological fragility and emotions experienced during the experiment)

Conclude: Go over how guidance and advice given to the adopters with information about the likely consequences for them and their child if the child does have a disorder may go some way to addressing the needs of these adopters and minimizing the initial shock they experience in dealing with their children

“Reactive Attachment Disorder”

This single case study, written from the personal perspective of an adoptive parent, tells the story of Anna, a child who experienced many difficulties adjusting to her life at home and at school due to RAD

Explain the change Chapman observed in her daughter and different changes in behavior and cognitive patterns

“Anna screamed, bit and punched her way through school, coming to the attention of the educational psychologist by age 7”

Explain the methods and process Chapman used with her daughter

“With the support of a post-adoption social worker, I began the task of therapeutic parenting in an attempt to fill in the very …t. Wherever she was, Anna would recognise ‘my’ scent.”

Discuss current trends and implications for mental health professionals working in the field of foster care and adoption settings
- ‘Child psychotherapist Robin Balbernie explains the ongoing formation of connections…can trigger the release in the brain of corticosteroids, one of which is cortisol

End with the conclusion: tie recurring themes and final overall summary

PEER REVIEW LITERATURE REVIEW

PEER REVIEW FEEDBACK FORM Use this template to guide your review of your partner’s essay. Answer all questions here, and feel free to add additional notes outside of the categories below. REMEMBER: Be respectful of the work your partner has put in. Treat your partner as you like to be treated.

TASK ORIENTATION Does the essay follow the task? How do you know this? [Look at the assignment itself and the guidelines given.] Good sources Summarizes sources well; plans to explain key detailsPlans to connect sources through their overall themesHas specific and good quotes that helps to explain the negative impacts adoption can haveRemember to put in quote citations and your references at the end

STRUCTURE Locate the thesis–and say it in your own words to be sure you understood it. Now find the topic sentences. Does each topic sentences sum up or introduce its paragraph effectively?
Clear intro; good title
Clear thesis: Adoption can impact both the child and the adoptive negatively by causing tension relationally and emotionally; there should be more counseling and programs to help this
Make sure your details in each paragraph support your topic sentence of each paragraph
Remember sub titles

SUPPORT & ANALYSIS Is evidence being used for any and all statements made? Does the author introduce, analyze, and explain the evidence? What’s the strongest piece of evidence?
Has specific and good quotes that helps to explain the negative impacts adoption can have Plans on explaining key detailsEvidence in body paragraph seems to support thesis
Strongest evidence: any quotes (further expound on quotes), “significant attachment problems manifest fairly typical behavioral patterns, which, in turn, tend to elicit fairly common responses from their parent.” (I would also explain this more, ex. What are common responses from parents?), definition of reactive attachment disorder

ORGANIZATION Does the paper read smoothly? Are there parts that seem out of place or confusing? (Mark these. Give suggestions if possible.) Add any transitions that would make the organization smoother.
Seems organized, sectioned based of articleyou can use words such as likewise, or similarly to compare the articles/ transition into a new article.
Intro clearly and nicely introduces topic by using a general and broad topic and then gets into what the essay will talk about; will have a conclusion: suggest solutions, or other studies or related topics

CLARITY Write what you consider: the clearest sentence
Reactive attachment disorder (RAD) is a condition in which a childfails to form healthy emotional bonds with his or her caregivers(parental figures), often as a result of early emotional neglect or

the most confusing sentence
“The discipline of psychology involved with the systematic study of individualbehavior, adjustment, and growth from birth through adolescence, as well as thetreatment of behavioral, mental, and emotional disorders”

PROOFREADING Note here any suggested changes in wording, grammar, punctuation, or spelling:
Only an outline

OVERALL What single change would make the most improvement in this essay?
Simplify as much as possible

LITERATURE REVIEW (ORIGINAL VERSION)

IRENE QUINTERO

ENGLISH 21003

PROF. ZAYAS

MARCH 30, 2022

The Psychological Effects of Adoption on the Child: Reactive Attachment Disorder

During the early stages of a child’s life, critical emotional and psychological changes occur that shape and influence the child’s growth from birth to adolescence. These developments have been and continue to be studied in order to better understand the individual behavior, adaptation, and treatment of psychosocial, mental, and emotional disorders in children. Several events in a child’s life, such as adoption, can have a significant impact on the child’s psychology. Adoption can have a negative impact on both the child and the caregiver, causing relationship and emotional strain; therefore, effective counseling and support programs should be more prevalent in our society.

To comprehend these psychological changes that occur in a child’s mind, it is necessary to understand the child’s point of view. Because adopted children are the primary focus in this case, this viewpoint should be analyzed through the eyes of a child experiencing change and developing in new environments. Throughout each stage, the child will “gradually develop a self-concept (how they see themselves) and self-esteem” with the goal of being satisfied with who they are (“Understanding Adoption: A Developmental Approach,” 2001). However, as children grow and experience new things, such as playing with other kids, “the child sees himself or herself as being different from other kids.” The child may struggle to understand what it means to be adopted and may experience feelings of loss and sadness. These feelings may essentially trigger the child to experience feelings of doubt or confusion about what is wrong with them or what distinguishes them from other children (“Understanding Adoption: A Developmental Approach,” 2001). Adolescent adopted children are prone to behavioral changes such as “aggression, angry behavior, withdrawal or sadness, and self-image problems.” Reaffirming words about the child’s biological mother or reminding the child of their importance and value in their life, on the other hand, could gradually help the child understand that stance. Finally, during adolescence, it is critical for the teenager to understand the relationship between their identity, sense of independence, and the changes that occur as they transition to adulthood (“Understanding Adoption: A Developmental Approach,” 2001). The difficult part is that, in many cases, adolescents have gone through several emotional stages in their lives, such as “shame and loss of self-esteem, especially because society’s image of birth parents is often negative” which can harm them as they grow and develop.

As previously stated, a child can develop emotional, psychosocial, and behavioral disorders during these stages of childhood development. One in particular, Reactive Attachment Disorder, is classified as a disorder in which children have difficulty “forming loving, lasting relationships” (Chapman, 2002). As a result of early emotional neglect or abuse, the child essentially fails to form healthy emotional bonds with his or her caregivers or guardians. (Chapman, 2002). This is explored further in a single case study written from the personal perspective of an adoptive parent, Sue Chapman, who shares her story about her adopted daughter, Ana, and her experiences raising a child with Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD). Ana was always described as a “very strong-willed child” who required “very firm handling,” but Chapman and Ana’s teachers began to notice new patterns in Ana’s behavior, such as sporadic outbursts of rage or violence. Furthermore, her caregivers recognized that any signs of “praise and recognition of positives appeared to be an invitation to Anna to up the stakes to prove just how bad she could really be” (Chapman, 2002). Chapman’s research into Ana’s behavioral changes resulted in a greater understanding of some common causes of attachment disorders such as “genetically vulnerable infants, pre-birth and birth traumas, extended or repeated separation from the birth mother; neglect; inconsistent or inadequate care,” among many others that Chapman was able to uncover. Throughout Chapman’s journey, she recalls “struggling to find support for [her]self and in [her] parenting role and understanding of Anna’s difficulties” (Chapman, 2002). However, with the help of a post-adoption social worker, Chapman was able to begin “therapeutic parenting in an attempt to fill in the very earliest gaps” of Ana’s childhood. For example, Chapman fulfilled this task by “dousing Anna, [her]self, Ana’s sister, and all her belongings in it. Wherever she was, Anna would recognize ‘her’ scent”, as in Chapman’s (Chapman, 2002). These methods helped reacquaint Ana with her guardians in the hopes of forming a healthy relationship. Recognizing behavioral trends and patterns were a great strategy in finding help and support to find the appropriate care for Ana.

So how do attachment disorders manifest themselves in children? Once again, it is critical to observe a child’s early development. The baby’s sensory systems “focus on interacting with their primary caregivers” during his or her infant years (Hughes, 2000). As a result, the interaction of the guardians, such as rocking them back and forth, smiling, holding them, and so on, contributes to the formation of a positive “”attunement” (referring to the sharing of affection between mother and infant).” Hughes (2000). These parental behaviors assist in “infant’s brain [to be] stimulated, [and develop] positive emotions of interest and joy develop” (Hughes, 2000). Disruptions in this process, on the other hand, can contribute to changes in a child’s relationship formation, leading to failed bonds with their adoptive parents. A successful adoption, according to child psychological studies, often implies that “the adopted child will gradually, and yet in a timely manner, develop a secure attachment with his or her new family” (Hughes, 2000). In most cases, children are able to form such bonds, and “the resulting attachment becomes the foundation for both their integration into the family and for their ongoing psychological development”. However, when a child experiences neglect or negative behaviors from adults, they are more likely to develop “gaps in their development that impede their readiness and ability to form attachments with their adoptive families, no matter how loving and committed those families are” (Hughes, 2000). Since these disorders can have a long-term impact on a child’s and parent’s relationship, social workers, psychologists, and others evaluating children for adoption must be “aware of the observations and findings of professionals and researchers studying children in institutionalized settings”(Hughes, 2000). In many cases, institutions do not observe these behaviors in children, leaving parents to wonder why their child is reacting to different changes in a certain way, and the child is also left unaided. Adoption professionals must understand and communicate to prospective parents that certain behaviors may indicate that the child is struggling to form selective attachments.

Slightly shifting gears, the effects of having a child with an attachment disorder can have a significant impact on one’s personal life. Studies investigating the experiences of caring for children with a variety of childhood mental health difficulties highlight the impact on, and consequences for, the “caring role and emotional well-being of parents and other caregivers” (Follan & McNamara, 2013). An interview-based study was conducted on a total of 8 adoptive parents between the ages of 30-61 to further investigate these effects. The researchers focused on identifying significant and similar emotions, thoughts, and responses the parents had when asked about their experience caring for a child with RAD during the interviews. “190 significant statements were identified, and these were then grouped into twenty formulated meanings,” according to the study (Follan & McNamara, 2013). Some interpretations included “exhaustion, fragility, an unrelenting burden, self-doubt, fear of failure,” among other things. Many of the participants stated that they were not adequately prepared for their child’s behavioral and emotional changes. Furthermore, the process of forming that bond between them and their child caught them off guard, leading to confusion and doubt about whether adoption was the best option for them. The most common responses could be classified as “being profoundly unprepared, being insecure in oneself, being assailed by unexpected emotions, and being committed” (Follan & McNamara, 2013).

Throughout the study, one recurring issue was that these attachment disorder “signs” were never discussed with the caregivers during the adoption process. Child and adolescent mental health staff with knowledge and experience in the impact of “early neglect or separation on children should be considered for involvement in the preparation of adoptive parents” (Follan & McNamara, 2013). In addition, providing adopters with information about the likely consequences for them and their child if the child does have a disorder may help to address these “adopters’ needs and reduce the initial shock they experience when dealing with their children” (Follan & McNamara, 2013). As research into the causes and effects of psychological disorders in children continues, the inclusion of preparatory programs or workshops may be beneficial for those parents who wish to adopt in the future and to raise awareness about the subject.

References

Chapman, S. (2002). Focus on Practice: Reactive attachment disorder. British Journal of Special Education, 29(2), 91–95. https://doi.org/10.1111/1467-8527.00246

Follan, M., & McNamara, M. (2013). A fragile bond: adoptive parents’ experiences of caring for children with a diagnosis of reactive attachment disorder. Journal of Clinical Nursing, 23(7-8), 1076–1085. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocn.12341

Hughes, D. A. (2000). Adopting children with attachment problems. Child Welfare, 78(5), 541–560. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10501012/

Understanding adoption: A developmental approach. (2001). Pediatrics & Child Health, 6(5), 281–283. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2804559/

LITERATURE REVIEW (REVISION)

IRENE QUINTERO

ENGLISH 21003

PROF. ZAYAS

MAY 24, 2022

The Psychological Effects of Adoption on the Child: Reactive Attachment Disorder

Critical emotional and psychological changes occur during the early stages of a child’s life, shaping and influencing the child’s growth from birth to adolescence. These advancements have been and continue to be studied in order to improve understanding of individual behavior, adaptation, and treatment of psychosocial, mental, and emotional disorders in children. The sections that follow will discuss the role of relationships in a child with RAD, behavioral changes in children, and the impact of children with RAD on the family unit. Adoption can have a negative impact on both the child and the caregiver, causing relationship and emotional strain; therefore, effective counseling and support programs should be more prevalent in our society.

Reactive Attachment Disorders and Relationships

To comprehend these psychological changes that occur in a child’s mind, it is necessary to understand the child’s point of view. Because adopted children are the primary focus in this case, this viewpoint should be analyzed through the eyes of a child experiencing change and developing in new environments. The article “Understanding Adoption: A Developmental Approach, highlights the stages in which reactive attachment disorder impede for the development of healthy realtionships between others and children with RAD. Throughout each stage, the child will “gradually develop a self-concept (how they see themselves) and self-esteem” with the goal of being satisfied with who they are (“Understanding Adoption: A Developmental Approach,” 2001). However, as children grow and experience new things, such as playing with other kids, “the child sees himself or herself as being different from other kids.” The child may struggle to understand what it means to be adopted and may experience feelings of loss and sadness. These feelings may essentially trigger the child to experience feelings of doubt or confusion about what is wrong with them or what distinguishes them from other children (“Understanding Adoption: A Developmental Approach,” 2001). Adolescent adopted children are prone to behavioral changes such as “aggression, angry behavior, withdrawal or sadness, and self-image problems.” Reaffirming words about the child’s biological mother or reminding the child of their importance and value in their life, on the other hand, could gradually help the child understand that stance. Finally, during adolescence, it is critical for the teenager to understand the relationship between their identity, sense of independence, and the changes that occur as they transition to adulthood (“Understanding Adoption: A Developmental Approach,” 2001). The difficult part is that, in many cases, adolescents have gone through several emotional stages in their lives, such as “shame and loss of self-esteem, especially because society’s image of birth parents is often negative” which can harm them as they grow and develop.

Behavioral Imbalances in Children with RAD

As previously stated, a child can develop emotional, psychosocial, and behavioral disorders during these stages of childhood development. One in particular, Reactive Attachment Disorder, is classified as a disorder in which children have difficulty “forming loving, lasting relationships” (Chapman, 2002). As a result of early emotional neglect or abuse, the child essentially fails to form healthy emotional bonds with his or her caregivers or guardians. (Chapman, 2002). This is explored further in a single case study written from the personal perspective of an adoptive parent, Sue Chapman, who shares her story about her adopted daughter, Ana, and her experiences raising a child with Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD). Ana was always described as a “very strong-willed child” who required “very firm handling,” but Chapman and Ana’s teachers began to notice new patterns in Ana’s behavior, such as sporadic outbursts of rage or violence. Furthermore, her caregivers recognized that any signs of “praise and recognition of positives appeared to be an invitation to Anna to up the stakes to prove just how bad she could really be” (Chapman, 2002). Chapman’s research into Ana’s behavioral changes resulted in a greater understanding of some common causes of attachment disorders such as “genetically vulnerable infants, pre-birth and birth traumas, extended or repeated separation from the birth mother; neglect; inconsistent or inadequate care,” among many others that Chapman was able to uncover. Throughout Chapman’s journey, she recalls “struggling to find support for [her]self and in [her] parenting role and understanding of Anna’s difficulties” (Chapman, 2002). However, with the help of a post-adoption social worker, Chapman was able to begin “therapeutic parenting in an attempt to fill in the very earliest gaps” of Ana’s childhood. For example, Chapman fulfilled this task by “dousing Anna, [her]self, Ana’s sister, and all her belongings in it. Wherever she was, Anna would recognise ‘her’ scent”, as in Chapman’s (Chapman, 2002). These methods helped reacquaint Ana with her guardians in the hopes of forming a healthy relationship. Recognizing behavioral trends and patterns were a great strategy in finding help and support to find the appropriate care for Ana.

Effects of Reactive Attchment Disorder on the Family Unit

So how do attachment disorders manifest themselves in children? Once again, it is critical to observe a child’s early development. The baby’s sensory systems “focus on interacting with their primary caregivers” during his or her infant years (Hughes, 2000). As a result, the interaction of the guardians, such as rocking them back and forth, smiling, holding them, and so on, contributes to the formation of a positive “”attunement” (referring to the sharing of affect between mother and infant).” Hughes (2000). These parental behaviors assist in “infant’s brain [to be] stimulated, [and develop] positive emotions of interest and joy develop” (Hughes, 2000). Disruptions in this process, on the other hand, can contribute to changes in a child’s relationship formation, leading to failed bonds with their adoptive parents. A successful adoption, according to child psychological studies, often implies that “the adopted child will gradually, and yet in a timely manner, develop a secure attachment with his or her new family” (Hughes, 2000). In most cases, children are able to form such bonds, and “the resulting attachment becomes the foundation for both their integration into the family and for their ongoing psychological development”. However, when a child experiences neglect or negative behaviors from adults, they are more likely to develop “gaps in their development that impede their readiness and ability to form attachments with their adoptive families, no matter how loving and committed those families are” (Hughes, 2000). Since these disorders can have a long-term impact on a child’s and parent’s relationship, social workers, psychologists, and others evaluating children for adoption must be “aware of the observations and findings of professionals and researchers studying children in institutionalized settings”(Hughes, 2000). In many cases, institutions do not observe these behaviors in children, leaving parents to wonder why their child is reacting to different changes in a certain way, and the child is also left unaided. Adoption professionals must understand and communicate to prospective parents that certain behaviors may indicate that the child is struggling to form selective attachments.

Conclusion

Throughout the paper, an analysis of Reactive Attahment Disorders was done to understand it’s impact of the child as well as their caregivers. An important factor that the studies discussed was that child and adolescent mental health staff with knowledge and experience in the impact of “early neglect or separation on children should be considered for involvement in the preparation of adoptive parents” (Follan & McNamara, 2013). In addition, providing adopters with information about the likely consequences for them and their child if the child does have a disorder may help to address these “adopters’ needs and reduce the initial shock they experience when dealing with their children” (Follan & McNamara, 2013). As research into the causes and effects of psychological disorders in children continues, the inclusion of preparatory programs or workshops may be beneficial for those parents who wish to adopt in the future and to raise awareness about the subject.

References

Chapman, S. (2002). Focus on Practice: Reactive attachment disorder. British Journal of Special Education, 29(2), 91–95. https://doi.org/10.1111/1467-8527.00246

Hughes, D. A. (2000). Adopting children with attachment problems. Child Welfare, 78(5), 541–560. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10501012/

Understanding adoption: A developmental approach. (2001). Pediatrics & Child Health, 6(5), 281–283. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2804559/

REFLECTION ON LITERATURE REVIEW

Two things I’m proud of are the “flow” of the review…I was able to show that funnel effect…and the sources I chose, which kind of told a narrative while being informative about the topic. I was able to practice using a variety of sources which varied from interviews to more scientific-based research. Two things I could’ve done better were to begin smaller pieces of the assignment earlier, because I had so many other assignments and midterms due at the same time, and I could’ve also possibly improved on the synthesis part, perhaps explaining the significance of the connection between the sources

PROPOSAL

IRENE QUINTERO

ENGLISH 21003

PROF. ZAYAS

APRIL 5, 2022

RESEARCH PROPOSAL

Adoption has always piqued my interest since I was a child. The impact of the process on the children’s physical and emotional well-being, as well as the family as a whole, has been interesting to study. I took a Child Development course in high school, which gave me a glimpse into observing how a child interacts with their parents, themselves, and the world in order to understand their mental development. My favorite topic that year was the science behind the “nature vs. nurture” debate and how it shaped children into the people they would become in the future. We looked at how different scenarios resulted in completely different behavioral and psychological traits. So, after doing my literature review and learning more about the profound effects that adoption can have on a child’s psychology and development, particularly the disorders that can result, I wanted to keep my focus on children but expand on the psychopathological effects associated with the “nature vs. nature” ideology.

This topic intrigues me because, for example, some of the most notorious serial killers have come from the most loving and caring families, but something there, whether it was a negative event or something chemically imbalanced, just clicked and they developed these extreme behaviors. On the other hand, we might expect children from impoverished neighborhoods with gangs and substance-abusing parents to act like their parents, but in many cases, the opposite is true. In the article “Determining Nature v.s Nurture,” for example, the goal is to see how much human behavior is influenced by genes versus the environments in which a person grows up and lives. This article delves deeper into the field of epigenetics to learn how a person’s psychology and genetics interact with their environment and how it can influence their upbringing. To fully cover the science behind this theory and its impacts on children, I would like to explore concepts like these as well as tie in real life experiences from sources, such as documentaries or interview-based experiments.

References
Steinberg, D. (2006). Determining Nature vs. Nurture. Scientific American Mind, 17(5), 12–14. https://doi-org.ccny-proxy1.libr.ccny.cuny.edu/10.1038/scientificamericanmind1006-12

ANNOTATED BIBLIOGRAPHY

IRENE QUINTERO

ENGLISH 21003

PROF. ZAYAS

APRIL 25, 2022

ANNOTATED BIBLIOGRAPHY SOURCES #1 and #2

ENTRY:

Barlow, F. K. (2019). Nature vs. nurture is nonsense: On the necessity of an integrated genetic, social, developmental, and personality psychology. Australian Journal of Psychology, 71(1), 68–79. https://doi.org/10.1111/ajpy.12240

SUMMARY:

This study’s main finding is that genes influence not only our personalities but also how we perceive and react to social situations. This approach, according to the researcher, is important when analyzing a human’s relationship with its environment, but it is frequently overlooked and undervalues the role that heritable individual differences may play in determining human behavior. An important experiment that helped support this theory was the examination of how each individual views the environment in a different way, whether negatively or positively. For example, in one study, 800 twin pairs were interviewed by phone about their social support. Twins were polled on 16 indices of social support (at two different time points, 5 years apart). These indices were applied to six factors: relative and friend issues, relative and friend support, confidants, and social integration. Genes accounted for between 43 and 75 percent of the variation in stable indices of social support. On the other hand, only two of the six social support measures were significantly predicted by shared environment. Therefore, the shared environment of twins had a much smaller impact on reports of social support in this study than genes did. To understand the interaction between a person and their environment, it is necessary to consider genes and their role. To improve future studies, researchers should investigate behavior genetics, or how genes and environment interact to shape all human thought, feelings, and behavior.

CONNECTION:

This article/specific scientific finding can be applied to the debate of nature vs. nurture and how it relates to a child’s development. The purpose of this article is to draw attention to the importance of genetics in a person’s development rather than the environment. We seek out, shape, and interpret our environments, and we respond to them in unique ways. While shared environments may have little impact, this does not “imply that they are unimportant in the development of human personality or behavior”. Rather, it refers to the fact that genes play a critical role in determining whether and how “objective environments become effective environments”. As a result, it is likely that in the future, we will recognize that most responses to the environment are influenced by genes.

QUOTES & TERMS:

“Heritability refers to the proportion of population variation in a trait that can be accounted for by genetic variation among individuals. The classical twin study is perhaps the prototype of a great natural experiment, allowing us to estimate heritability of human traits.” (Barlow, 2019)

“However, it is not just the way that we remember or experience relationships that is heritable. Genes can also play a role in shaping our general life experiences.” (Barlow, 2019)

“The shared environment reflects broad commonly experienced variables such as the nation, suburb, and house twins live in, or the school they go to. It also encompasses all the shared aspects of social influence including, for example, exposure to societal norms through the news and social media. Critically, it also incorporates shared experiences in the home environment, including parenting.” (Barlow, 2019)

ENTRY:

Kamran, F. (2016). Are Siblings Different as “Day and Night”? Parents’ Perceptions of Nature vs. Nurture. Journal of Behavioral Sciences, 26(2), 95–115. https://search-ebscohost-com.ccny-proxy1.libr.ccny.cuny.edu/login.aspx?direct=true&db=a9h&AN=123081830&site=ehost-live

SUMMARY:

The goal of this research was to look into parents’ perceptions and assumptions of personality differences in their children. The Interpretative Phenomenological Approach was used to interview twelve parents. According to the findings, the parents related their children’s personality differences to a combination of biological and psychosocial factors. It revealed significant information and insight through themes such as nature vs. nurture, psychosocial influences, parental identification and role modeling, gender, birth order, and role expectations. However, despite sharing the same genetics and living in similar environmental conditions, the children showed a wide variety of behaviors and personalities. One of the studies found that while environmental influences are important, parental influences appear to be even more so. Only if parents differentiate their children is parenting likely to be an important source of environmental variation. Leading to the question of how parents treat their children similarly or differently as well as other attributes that influence its development, which all ultimately shape their personalities.

CONNECTION:

This notion that “psychosocial influences act differently on each child of the same family, resulting in unique and diverse sibling personalities” can be used to defend the nurture component of my research. While the article briefly discusses the impact of genetics on a child’s personality and development, it primarily focuses on three more environmental-based themes: (1) Common Experience Attributes; (2) Demographic Factors as Determinants; and (3) Parental Influences. Analyzing these factors will help to understand the relative importance of nature vs. nurture factors in determining personality differences.

QUOTES & TERMS:

“ Parent’s perceptions of their children’s personalities, strengths and weaknesses develops on the basis of a variety of psychosocial and genetic factors. Parents tend to have a natural tendency and expectations for an Ideal child‟ and make efforts to describe their children closer to their own specific versions of an ideal child. They strive to achieve a concept referred to as an ideal child and thus make efforts to compensate the weaknesses, undesirable behaviors and attitudes of their children by rationalizing.” (Kamran, 2016)

“ Genetics were discussed to explain the common traits of parents and children. Parents identified their children by relating to each parent and family. A mother described her children saying that; “Omer is more like Ali & Sara definitely takes after me”. Genetic impact of relatives was also described to explain child‟s behaviors when a father kept referring to his late brother having a similar personality as that of his son; “Omer is more like my late brother” and concluded later that” I see some family connections. ” (Kamran, 2016)

IRENE QUINTERO

ENGLISH 21003

PROF. ZAYAS

APRIL 27, 2022

ANNOTATED BIBLIOGRAPHY SOURCES #3 and #4

ENTRY:

Steinberg, D. (2006). Determining Nature vs. Nurture. Scientific American Mind, 17(5), 12–14. https://doi-org.ccny-proxy1.libr.ccny.cuny.edu/10.1038/scientificamericanmind1006-12

SUMMARY:

In the article “Determining Nature v.s Nurture,” for example, the goal is to see how much human behavior is influenced by genes versus the environments in which a person grows up and lives. A recurring question that seems to come up in this article is, “How exactly do genes and environment interact to determine whether someone will become depressed or develop a certain mental illness?”. This article delves deeper into the field of epigenetics to learn how a person’s psychology and genetics interact with their environment and how it can influence their upbringing. For example, researchers investigate how molecules interact with two major parts in the nucleus of a cell: the DNA in and around a gene, and histones — the proteins that wrap chromosomes. These molecules are known as methyl and acetyl groups, and their presence or absence at target sites determines whether specific genes can produce proteins, which are the essential parts of most physiological processes. This association or lack of can eventually lead to behavioral or emotional changes in a person. This theory was tested in an animal model of the disease, which included epigenetic changes in the hippocampus, a memory-storing brain region that shrinks in some cases of human depression.

CONNECTON:

This can be used in my research because researchers concluded that the action (changes in their epigenetics) suppressed a gene, resulting in the failure to produce a protein suspected of aiding the brain’s adaptation to stress. Furthermore, it was shown that the behavior of the parent animal can have a direct impact on the gene development of their offspring as they grow. Although tested on animals, these findings can be applied to the chemical changes in a person’s mind that can have a significant impact on their development. This can primarily be used to defend and further explain the role of genes in the nature vs. nurture theory.

QUOTES:

“Then researchers proved that epigenetic changes are indeed at work in mature cells. Now studies are starting to show how environmental cues can stimulate epigenetic changes that could contribute to several psychiatric diseases. Systematic measurement of those changes could eventually indicate how the environment influences the genetic chemistry underlying many human behaviors.” (Steinberg, 2016)

“Epigenetics may indeed unveil what is happening at the intersection of genes and environment — between nature and nurture — but we will be relying on psychiatrists and psychologists for a long time to come.” (Streinberg, 2016)

ENTRY:

Three Identical Strangers

2018 1hr 36 min

Content rating PG-13

Genre Documentary · Biography · Drama · History · Mystery

Directed by Tim Wardle

Written by Grace Hughes-Hallett

SUMMARY:

Three Identical Strangers, directed by Hughes-Hallet, is a documentary that delves into the true story of a set of identical triplets, Edward Galland, David Kellman, and Robert Shafran, who were adopted as infants as part of a twin project that began in the 1950s at the Child Development Center (CDC) in New York City. Throughout the film, psychologists and other researchers delve into the case’s origins as well as the purpose of the “medical malpractice” that occurred. Furthermore, the documentary aimed to look into not only nature vs. nurture, but also mental disorders, scientific moral standards, and whether humans truly have free will or if one‘s genetics determine what they are like indefinitely.

CONNECTION:

Although I haven’t finished watching this documentary yet, it will be helpful in proving and refuting the nature vs. nurture theory debates. This is an excellent example because: a) it is a true story filled with real experiences and examples of human development and psychology; and b) the documentary emphasizes not only the genetics shared by these triplets, as well as similarities in their behavior, but also the different environments in which they were raised as a result of their birth separation.

ROUGH DRAFT (RESEARCH PAPER)

IRENE QUINTERO

ENGLISH 21003

PROF. ZAYAS

MAY 4, 2022

Child Development: Nature v.s Nurture. Which one is it?

““One of the greatest questions science has ever asked is ““How do we become the people we are.”” stated Lawrence Wright, a journalist and novelist. ““How much of nature versus how much of nurture shapes us into the people we become?”” Even before experts began to explore the foundations of a child’s development, there was a controversy about it. “Oh sure, I get that from my mom (or dad).” has been heard countless times. Is there, however, a definitive answer? Is it safe to state that a person’s personality or the way they act is only inherited and “in their blood,” or is it reasonable to argue that the only environment in which they are raised dictates who they are? Except for the word “only,” all of the statements are partially valid. Both a person’s genes and the environment in which they grew up play a role in shaping the person they will become. Both one’s nature and one’s nurture play a role in one’s growth; they are both vital to it, without a question.

When studying the various aspects of genetics, one’s attention is pulled to the psychological element. It is frequently used to refer to identifying genes or features that have been passed down from one generation to the next. However, studies are progressively demonstrating the value of analyzing a person’s DNA in relation to their upbringing from a biological and scientific standpoint. This technique, according to researchers, is critical for studying a human’s relationship with its environment, but it is typically disregarded and undervalues the importance that heritable individual differences may play in determining human behavior. For example, when studying sets of twins and how their perception of the environment differs based on genetics, the article “Nature vs. nurture is nonsense: On the necessity of an integrated genetic, social, developmental, and personality psychology” addresses this theory of behavioral determination. The key finding of this study is that genes have an impact on not just our personalities, but also how we perceive and react to social circumstances *** Relate to study and include quotes from study*** ( Notes on study: In one study, 800 twin pairs were interviewed by phone about their social support. Twins were polled on 16 indices of social support (at two different time points, 5 years apart). These indices were applied to six factors: relative and friend issues, relative and friend support, confidants, and social integration. Genes accounted for between 43 and 75 percent of the variation in stable indices of social support. On the other hand, only two of the six social support measures were significantly predicted by shared environment. Therefore, the shared environment of twins had a much smaller impact on reports of social support in this study than genes did.) ( “However, it is not just the way that we remember or experience relationships that is heritable. Genes can also play a role in shaping our general life experiences.” (Barlow, 2019) (What falls under the category of shared envrionment?? “ reflects broad commonly experienced variables such as the nation, suburb, and house twins live in, or the school they go to. It also encompasses all the shared aspects of social influence including, for example, exposure to societal norms through the news and social media. Critically, it also incorporates shared experiences in the home environment, including parenting.” (Barlow, 2019)

In addition to observing the impact of heredity vs. environment on a child’s development, epigenetics dives deeper into understanding how a person’s psychology and genetics interact with their environment and how this influences their parenting. Epigenetics is defined as “the study of how a person’s behaviors and environment can cause changes that affect the way their genes work” (CDC, 2020). This new approach aimed to see how much human behavior is influenced by genes versus the environments in which a person grows up and lives through a more bio-psychological way. A recurring question that seems to come up in this article is, “How exactly do genes and environment interact to determine whether someone will become depressed or develop a certain mental illness?” (Notes on the study: Researchers investigate how molecules interact with two major parts in the nucleus of a cell: the DNA in and around a gene, and histones — the proteins that wrap chromosomes. These molecules are known as methyl and acetyl groups, and their presence or absence at target sites determines whether specific genes can produce proteins, which are the essential parts of most physiological processes. This association or lack of can eventually lead to behavioral or emotional changes in a person. This theory was tested in an animal model of the disease, which included epigenetic changes in the hippocampus, a memory-storing brain region that shrinks in some cases of human depression. *** Dig further into study****) ( “Then researchers proved that epigenetic changes are indeed at work in mature cells. Now studies are starting to show how environmental cues can stimulate epigenetic changes that could contribute to several psychiatric diseases. Systematic measurement of those changes could eventually indicate how the environment influences the genetic chemistry underlying many human behaviors.” (Steinberg, 2016)

As studies progress, the line between these two arguents begins to blur due to the equal importance of both factors in one’s development. In the article, “ Are Siblings Different as “Day and Night”? Parents’ Perceptions of Nature vs. Nurture.” shifts the attention to look into parents’ perceptions and assumptions of personality differences in their children. (Notes on study: The Interpretative Phenomenological Approach was used to interview twelve parents. According to the findings, the parents related their children’s personality differences to a combination of biological and psychosocial factors. It revealed significant information and insight through themes such as nature vs. nurture, psychosocial influences, parental identification and role modeling, gender, birth order, and role expectations. ( “ Genetics were discussed to explain the common traits of parents and children. Parents identified their children by relating to each parent and family. A mother described her children saying that; “Omer is more like Ali & Sara definitely takes after me”. Genetic impact of relatives was also described to explain child‟s behaviors when a father kept referring to his late brother having a similar personality as that of his son; “Omer is more like my late brother” and concluded later that” I see some family connections. ” (Kamran, 2016) However, despite sharing the same genetics and living in similar environmental conditions, the children showed a wide variety of behaviors and personalities. (****Begin to show where both argument begin to join and work together***) One of the studies found that while environmental influences are important, parental influences appear to be even more so. Only if parents differentiate their children is parenting likely to be an important source of environmental variation. Leading to the question of how parents treat their children similarly or differently as well as other attributes that influence its development, which all ultimately shape their personalities. (“ Parent’s perceptions of their children’s personalities, strengths and weaknesses develops on the basis of a variety of psychosocial and genetic factors. Parents tend to have a natural tendency and expectations for an Ideal child‟ and make efforts to describe their children closer to their own specific versions of an ideal child. They strive to achieve a concept referred to as an ideal child and thus make efforts to compensate the weaknesses, undesirable behaviors and attitudes of their children by rationalizing.” (Kamran, 2016)

**** Start of with a quote from the documentary** (What does this mean?) ( Notes of study: Three Identical Strangers, directed by Hughes-Hallet, is a documentary that delves into the true story of a set of identical triplets, Edward Galland, David Kellman, and Robert Shafran, who were adopted as infants as part of a twin project that began in the 1950s at the Child Development Center (CDC) in New York City. Throughout the film, psychologists and other researchers delve into the case’s origins as well as the purpose of the “medical malpractice” that occurred. Furthermore, the documentary aimed to look into not only nature vs. nurture, but also mental disorders, scientific moral standards, and whether humans truly have free will or if one‘s genetics determine what they are like indefinitely.) ( Expand on each part of the film, the experiences the triplets had, the changes their parents and loved ones began to have) (Fully explain about the discovery of the main purpose of the twin experiment/triplet study and how that compared to the other set of twins in the study) (compare similaieties and highlight differences alluding to the result of both geentictis role and the environments role in the triplets nurturing)

**** Discuss final observations and conclusions**** as well as refer back to the thesis and restate why this is important and relevant to today’s research. ( Both a person’s genes and the environment in which they grew up play a role in shaping the person they will become. Both one’s nature and one’s nurture play a role in one’s growth; they are both vital to it, without a question.)

PEER REVIEW RESEARCH PAPER

TASK ORIENTATION Does the essay follow the task? How do you know this? [Look at the assignment itself and the guidelines given.] From what I have read the task follows the essay prompt. Your argument is exploring the arguments of Nurture vs Nature, in relation to the development of people. Even in the introduction you provide information and I like how you add your voice throughout the paper.

STRUCTURE Locate the thesis–and say it in your own words to be sure you understood it. Now find the topic sentences. Does each topic sentences sum up or introduce its paragraph effectively? I think I found the thesis easily. It is the last few sentences of the first paragraph. The thesis statement is that both nature and nurture are important in a person’s growth.

SUPPORT & ANALYSIS Is evidence being used for any and all statements made? Does the author introduce, analyze, and explain the evidence? What’s the strongest piece of evidence? So far of the parts that are prepared most of the information that you have used mostly common knowledge that doesn’t need to be cited. Though looking at the rest of your ideas, you have many studies that when properly incorporated will support your claims. Make sure to define

ORGANIZATION Does the paper read smoothly? Are there parts that seem out of place or confusing? (Mark these. Give suggestions if possible.) Add any transitions that would make the organization smoother. I understand the organization of your paper for the most part. To make the paper read smoothly make sure to have clear transition sentences.

CLARITY Write what you consider: the clearest sentence: The key finding of this study is that genes have an impact on not just our personalities, but also how we perceive and react to social circumstances, add more supporting sentences when supporting your claims. the most confusing sentence: The thesis isn’t confusing, but you should

PROOFREADING Note here any suggested changes in wording, grammar, punctuation, or spelling: Make sure you add your sources, but that isn’t that big of a concern. Make sure to fix any clear spelling mistakes, I’m not the best person to common on proof reading.

OVERALL What single change would make the most improvement in this essay? I think you have everything to make a good research paper. The only thing you need is to organize each of your ideas and make clear topic sentences. You have a good draft, that has almost all the ideas for the paper.

FINAL DRAFT (RESEARCH PAPER)

IRENE QUINTERO

ENGLISH 21003

PROF. ZAYAS

MAY 20, 2022

Child Development: Nature v.s Nurture. Which one is it?

““One of the greatest questions science has ever asked is ““How do we become the people we are.”” stated Lawrence Wright, a journalist and novelist. ““How much of nature versus how much of nurture shapes us into the people we become?”” Even before experts began to explore the foundations of a child’s development, there was a controversy about it. “Oh sure, I get that from my mom (or dad).” has been heard countless times. Is there, however, a definitive answer? Is it safe to say that a person’s personality or the way they act is only inherited and “in their blood,” or is it reasonable to argue that the only environment in which they are raised dictates who they are? It’s actually a mix of the two of the two. A person’s genetics and the environment in which they grew up both play a role in shaping the person they will become and contribute equally to their development and growth.

When studying the various aspects of genetics, one’s attention is pulled to the psychological element. It is frequently used to refer to identifying genes or features that have been passed down from one generation to the next. However, studies are progressively demonstrating the value of analyzing a person’s DNA in relation to their upbringing from a biological and scientific standpoint. This technique, according to researchers, is critical for studying a human’s relationship with its environment, but it is typically disregarded and undervalues the importance that heritable individual differences may play in determining human behavior. For example, when studying sets of twins and how their perception of the environment differs based on genetics, the article “Nature vs. nurture is nonsense: On the necessity of an integrated genetic, social, developmental, and personality psychology” addresses this theory of behavioral determination. The key finding of this study is that genes have an impact on not just our personalities, but also how we perceive and react to social circumstances. This behavior was studied through a series of interviews done on a total of 800 twin pairs based on their social support. These sets of twins were “polled on 16 indices of social support” which were taken at two different time points, each 5 years apart (Barlow, 2019). These indices were applied to six factors: “relative and friend issues, relative and friend support, confidants, and social integration” (Barlow, 2019). In stable indices of social support, genes accounted for between 43 and 75 percent of the variation. Only two of the six social support measures, on the other hand, were significantly predicted by shared environment. As a result, in this study, twins’ shared environment had a much smaller impact on reports of social support than genes did, emphasizing that “genes can also play a role in shaping our general life experiences” (Barlow, 2019). This is a significant step forward in the scientific field because research can now focus specifically on how similarities in genes, whether inherited or chemically mutated, can have a significant impact on a person’s behavior and emotional well-being.

Aside from observing the impact of heredity vs. environment on a child’s development, epigenetics delves deeper into understanding how a person’s psychology and genetics interact with their environment and how this influences their parenting. The study of how a person’s behaviors and environment can cause changes that affect the way their genes work is known as epigenetics (CDC, 2020). This novel approach sought to determine how much human behavior is influenced by genes versus the environments in which a person grows up and lives in a more bio-psychological manner. “How exactly do genes and environment interact to determine whether someone will develop depression or another mental illness?” appears to be a recurring question in this article. As previously discussed, certain traits can be passed down to younger generations, implying illness inheritance; however, epigenetic discoveries have shifted to understand how gene modification plays a role in the development of mental illnesses. Researchers investigate how molecules interact with two major components in the nucleus of a cell: the DNA in and around a gene, and histones — the proteins that wrap chromosomes. These molecules are referred to as methyl and acetyl groups, and their presence or absence at target sites determines whether specific genes can produce proteins, which are required for most physiological processes (Steinberg, 2006). This association or lack thereof can lead to behavioral or emotional changes in a person. “Researchers demonstrated that epigenetic changes are active in mature cells.” “Studies are now beginning to show how environmental cues can stimulate epigenetic changes that may contribute to a variety of psychiatric diseases” (Steinberg, 2016).Scientists discovered that when they exposed a male mouse to a stressful environment, its “methyl groups stuck to histones (the DNA-spooling proteins) in the hippocampus” (Steinberg, 2006). This action silenced a gene, preventing the production of a protein thought to aid in stress adaptation in the brain. Researchers concluded that these protein changes in the body, which included epigenetic changes in the hippocampus, can eventually harm a memory-storing brain region that shrinks in some cases of human depression.

As studies progress, the line between these two arguments begins to blur due to the equal importance of both factors in one’s development. In the article “Are Siblings as Distinct as “Day and Night”? Parents’ Perceptions of Nature vs. Nurture.” focuses on parents’ perceptions and assumptions about their children’s personality differences. Twelve parents were interviewed in this study based on these criteria. The parents attributed their children’s personality differences to a combination of biological and psychosocial factors, according to the findings. Nature vs. nurture, psychosocial influences, parental identification and role modeling, gender, birth order, and role expectations were among the themes that revealed significant information and insight (Kamran, 2016). According to studies, many parents “identified their children by relating to each parent and family” (Kamran, 2016). A mother described her children by saying, “Omer is more like Ali, and Sara definitely takes after me,” and other similar comments emphasizing the genetic influence of parents and relatives to explain the child’s behaviors. Despite having the same genetics and living in similar environments, the children displayed a wide range of behaviors and personalities. The merging of the two arguments nature vs. nurture begins at this stage. One study discovered that, while environmental influences are significant, parental influences appear to be even more so ( Karman, 2016). While the children in the interview inherited similar characteristics from their parents, each guardian’s parenting style stood out as a factor in influencing a child’s development, which all ultimately shape their personalities. Parents have a natural tendency and expectation for an “Ideal child” and make efforts to describe their children in ways that are more similar to their own specific versions of an ideal child. They strive to achieve the “concept of an ideal child and thus make efforts to compensate for their children’s weaknesses, undesirable behaviors, and attitudes by rationalizing.” Kamran (2016) It was possible to investigate the effects of both genetics and parenting on a developing child in this study.

Finally, Hughes-documentary Hallet’s Three Identical Strangers delves into the true story of identical triplets Edward Galland, David Kellman, and Robert Shafran, who were adopted as infants as part of a twin project that began in the 1950s at the Child Development Center (CDC) in New York City. The goal of this later discovered study was to observe how three identical siblings would develop in three different households with three different parenting styles. The purpose of this study was to put an end to the nurture v.s. nature debate once and for all and determine which one plays a larger role, but as previously stated, both of these concepts played an equal role. For example, when the brothers first met, they were struck by how many similarities they had, ranging from mental health to hobbies and habits. Some of the more specific traits they shared were periods of depression as well as behavioral problems, which were later linked to their biological mother, and another less specific trait was that they all loved wrestling and played it in high school.These discoveries were incredible to witness at the time because they demonstrated the power of genetics while also conveying a sense of powerlessness over certain aspects of one’s life. However, the differences they shared were directly related to the type of parenting they received. David’s father, for example, was a warm, generous father who prioritized his family above all else. Eddy’s father was more traditional, strict, and disciplined, which unfortunately resulted in a strained relationship between father and son, and Bobby’s father didn’t have a lot of time due to his profession, but was devoted to giving his son his love. Despite sharing the same genetic material, the three brothers came from a variety of wealthy to low-income families, which had a significant impact on their emotional and mental health. As researchers examined how these parenting styles affected the boys’ development, they discovered key differences that resulted in the distancing of the brothers.

As scientists and researchers continue to debate a child’s development and psychology, it is critical to recognize that both a person’s genetics and the environment in which they grew up play a role in shaping the person they will become and contribute equally to their development and growth. From observing a child’s response to their environment to learning about the role of epigenetics and its correlation with the environment, the world of human development continues to evolve and change. Analyzing these variables will help us understand the relative importance of nature vs. nurture in determining personality differences and will lead to more scientific discoveries.

REFERENCES

Steinberg, D. (2006). Determining Nature vs. Nurture. Scientific American Mind, 17(5), 12–14. https://doi-org.ccny-proxy1.libr.ccny.cuny.edu/10.1038/scientificamericanmind1006-12

Three Identical Strangers (2019)

Directed by Tim Wardle

Written by Grace Hughes-Hallett

REFLECTION RESEARCH PAPER

The research paper was difficult for me because I became confused and struggled with how to begin. The introduction, or how “I should start,” was a little difficult because I knew I needed to include a broader paragraph and then begin defending my thesis, but I didn’t want to make it too long and lose focus on my paper. Reading and analyzing the sources was definitely my favorite part, especially since they all addressed different lenses. The documentary was an excellent “tying it all together” article for my paper, and it was fascinating to see a real-life application of the theory.