The Nurture Assumption: Why Children Turn Out the Way They Do

Behavioral geneticists study how humans’ genetics inform their behavior. Judith Rich Harris argues these scientist are more equipped to distinguish environmental influences from hereditary influences than socialization researchers, and as such, produce more reliable research.

A direct genetic effect is the direct result (trait) of one’s genes. For example, hair color is a direct genetic effect.

According to Harris’s group socialization theory, children are more influenced by interactions outside of the home—with peers, teachers, and broader culture—than those with parents. This theory maintains parental influence has been overstated by socialization researchers.