Which concept asserts that our genes set the boundaries within which environmental factors can influence our development?

• A. Epigenetics
• B. Gene-environment correlation
• C. Heritability coefficient
• D. Range of reaction

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the key concepts related to genetics and environment in development: Epigenetics refers to changes in gene expression caused by environmental factors without altering the DNA sequence; Gene-environment correlation describes how genetic predispositions influence the environments individuals experience; Heritability coefficient quantifies the proportion of variation in a trait attributable to genetic differences within a population.
2. Focus on the concept that explains how genes set limits or boundaries on the potential influence of the environment on development. This concept suggests that while genes provide a range of possible outcomes, the environment determines where within that range an individual will fall.
3. Identify the term 'Range of reaction,' which asserts that genetic makeup establishes a range of possible developmental outcomes, and environmental factors influence the actual outcome within this range.
4. Recognize that 'Range of reaction' differs from epigenetics and gene-environment correlation by emphasizing the boundaries set by genes rather than changes in gene expression or correlations between genes and environment.
5. Conclude that the concept which asserts that our genes set the boundaries within which environmental factors can influence our development is the 'Range of reaction.'