Question

which of the following is true regarding the evolutionary perspective?

a.) it is an approach that looks to identify behavior that is a result of genetic inheritance.

b.) it is a theory that focuses primarily on environmental factors.

c.) it is an approach that examines current behavior in an individual, and not those behaviors inherited.

d.) it is a theory that focuses primarily on social factors.

Explanation:

Define evolutionary perspective

The evolutionary perspective in psychology seeks to identify how human behaviors, cognitive systems, and psychological traits are functional products of natural selection and genetic inheritance.

Analyze option A

Option (a) states that it is an approach looking to identify behavior resulting from genetic inheritance. This aligns directly with the core definition of evolutionary psychology, which posits that behaviors helping our ancestors survive and reproduce are passed down genetically.

Analyze option B

Option (b) focuses primarily on environmental factors. This describes behaviorism or environmental determinism rather than the evolutionary perspective.

Analyze option C

Option (c) claims it examines current behavior and not inherited behaviors. This is incorrect because the evolutionary perspective specifically focuses on how current behaviors are rooted in inherited traits.

Analyze option D

Option (d) focuses primarily on social factors. This describes the sociocultural perspective rather than the evolutionary perspective.

Answer:

• a.) It is an approach that looks to identify behavior that is a result of genetic inheritance. (Correct answer)
• b.) It is a theory that focuses primarily on environmental factors.
• c.) It is an approach that examines current behavior in an individual, and not those behaviors inherited.
• d.) It is a theory that focuses primarily on social factors.