Family Traits – Nature versus Nurture

Stimulated by class discussions of Nature versus Nurture, I entertained myself on the drive home by attempting to ascertain the root cause of curiousness. Was it predominantly genetic, or societal in nature? Class input regarding the trait, informed me that my pre-class beliefs regarding the nature of curiosity were insufficient, and inaccurate for application to the class of humankind. My recently revealed, glaring ignorance regarding the absolute and profound necessity of this trait for one's very existence, demanded that my exploration of this topic be restricted to only my curiosity matrix.

GENETICS

ADHD - requires unusually high levels of stimulation to create and maintain focus.
Both parents also ADHD.
Two siblings ADD, only
One other sibling - also ADHD and dyslexic.

Dyslexia – necessitates constant review of data received and transmitted, especially in
social learning environments.

Lack of input causes malaise clinically known as Extreme Boredom.
Malaise causes physical and mental discomfort, with resultant manifestation of fidgety-ness.


SOCIAL DETERMINANTS

Both parents ADHD.
Two siblings ADD,
One other sibling also ADHD and dyslexic.
Both parents, and two siblings - highly inquisitive people.

Grew up in rural environment.
Exposure to others limited to school, church, family activities - first 13 years of life.

Both parents avid readers.
New books - educational and pleasure always entering home.
Limited TV, and phone time.
Reading, participation in family games, playing musical instrument - family requirements.

Father required high levels of stimulation. Started debates at supper table every evening, at conclusion of debate, he reversed his position for purpose of maintaining high level of stimulation.

Mom was always busy, sewing, reading, knitting, crocheting, embroidering, or doing needlepoint while “resting” and watching TV.

84-year-old mother still loves learning new vocabulary, and exposure to new learning experiences.

It appears to me that there is a high family overlap in genetic determinants and social determinants; many of the listings in the “social determinants” category could be how genetic determinants manifested within the family structure. After reviewing the family history, personality traits, and life choices, I concluded that nature and nurture are the root cause of my curiosity level. However, I continue to wonder if the “nurture” factor is truly based in societal influences, or the resultant creation of my famiy’s genetics.