Discuss research into genetic and environmental factors associated with intelligence

A01: The individual genotype is defined at conception. This is the genetic potential that forms a blueprint for observable expression of characteristics (the phenotype). Individuals may carry genes that are not expressed but it is impossible to investigate the genotype, therefore investigate the phenotype using intelligence tests. If intelligence is inherited there will be clearly observable similarities between family members. The closer the genetic relationship the greater the similarity; this measures the concordance rate. When looking at the environment there are a few ideas to consider. Active covariation; situations that enhance genetic capability. Passive covariation; parents possessing high genetic capability provide an environment that stimulates the child’s ability. Finally reactive environment; where the individuals behaviour attracts the attention of others, who treat them differently.A02: Bouchard and Mcgue provide a clear indication of the genetic component in intelligence in family studies. They found strong correlation coefficients with twin studies. The closer the genetic relatedness, the higher the correlation. However, they also found that when the individuals were reared apart this correlation almost halved, which shows evidence for the environment as well. The sample size for this study was 4000, therefore even low correlations are likely to be significant and so evidence for both genetics and environment is seen here. However, the use of IQ tests comes with the assumption that intelligence levels can be inherited. Intelligence is passed on from parent to child through genes. This suggests that IQ is fixed and unchangeable because of high heritability rates and so any attempts of enriched education would be a waste of resources. But this is morally wrong and could lead to eugenics. Further issues are found within cultural factors. Many IQ tests use picture representations, however, these variations can vary between cultures and so there may be a problem of working out meaning of the tests rather than suggesting a lower IQ. Therefore there is a nature verse nurture debated sparked up here, and the research seems to suggest that is it neither on its own but the two factors working together.