A Book Analysis of The Nurture Assumption: Why Children Turn Out the Way They Do; Parents Matter Less Than You Think and Peers Matter More by Judith Rich Harriss
The Nurture Assumption is a concept in psychology which suggests that people are shaped more by their environment than their genetics It also states that people learn primarily from their individual environment rather than what they inherit biologically from their parents. This idea goes against the long-held beliefs that people are born with a set of traits that are passed down from their parents or ancestors, and that these traits are unchangeable. Instead, proponents of the Nurture Assumption believe that most of our behavior, thoughts, and emotions are the product of our experiences, which occur within our own unique social environment.
With the Nurture Assumption in mind, here are five examples of how it can be used in real life:
1. A person with a history of substance abuse in their family may still be able to resist the urge to follow in their family's footsteps, depending on their own environment. If they have a stable support system and access to resources that allow them to make healthy choices, they may be able to lead a substance-free life, regardless of their family history.
2. A child with a parent who exhibits poor impulse control can learn to control their emotions and behaviors, given a nurturing and supportive environment. By providing positive reinforcement, strong discipline, and teaching the importance of impulse control, the child can learn to overcome the genetic predisposition they may have inherited.
3. A person with a family history of depression may be able to remain free of the condition if they are surrounded by supportive people who understand their struggles and provide coping strategies.
4. A person with a history of anxiety can learn to manage their feelings of worry and fear in a healthy way, as long as they have a supportive and understanding environment that helps them to understand their own feelings and reactions.
5. A person with a history of aggression can learn to remain calm and in control, provided that they have an environment that provides them with peace, structure, and consistent reinforcement of positive behaviors.
Ultimately, the Nurture Assumption is a reminder that our environment, rather than our genetics, has a strong influence on the people we become. With the right environment, we have the potential to learn, grow, and overcome any obstacles presented to us.