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Essay / Nature vs. Nurture Theory: Alcoholism - 704
The Nature vs. Nurture theory is one of the most controversial topics of debate in psychology. This debate has been going on for years now. The argument from nature is supported by genetics and what is hereditary about a person. Psychologists who support the “nature” theory focus on what an individual is born with. For example, they focus on genes, DNA, personality traits, and other qualities that they simply cannot change in themselves. Research focusing on the neurotransmitter results of an addict is usually conducted to further support this point. On the other hand, the Nurture argument is supported by events that influenced a person's decision and lifestyle. Psychologists who support the "culture" theory base their arguments on understanding a person's behavior. They focus on the personal experiences that shape and form a person. They also focus on how a person was raised, what and how they were educated in school and their lifestyle. Usually, psychologists focus on influences such as peer pressure and the media when it comes to adolescents turning to drugs or alcohol. A study conducted by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism proposes that Asians or anyone with Asian ancestry possess a certain gene that makes them feel weak, nauseous and unpleasant when they consume alcohol. alcohol. It is believed that the more you enjoy the experience of alcohol, the more you will drink and eventually develop alcoholism. Well, Asians with this gene are less likely to develop alcoholism because they won't drink as much alcohol because it's not enjoyable. On the other hand, another study implies that there is a gene that makes alcohol more enjoyable. and pleasant. Basically the way this gene works is that it increases the feeling of pleasure ...... middle of paper ...... to alcohol, the more difficult it would be to restrict one's own actions. However, some people believe that alcoholism is developed by both nature and nurture. However, if I had to choose a side, I would support the nature argument. It's not fair to blame your race, your heritage, or your parents for your mistakes in life. Just because your parent is an alcoholic doesn't mean it's okay for you to follow in their footsteps and blame them for the way you became. Your personal life choices determine who you are. Maybe the way you were raised, peer pressure or the media influenced you, you still make your decisions. You are always able to break out of this “narrow” thinking that you are supposed to live your life the way your parents lived. Everyone has a choice, if you choose to be an alcoholic it's up to you, not your genes..