Genetics and Children's Experiences in the Family

Genetic research may have its greatest impact for clinicians and developmental researchers in terms of understanding the environment and how the environment relates to children's development. This review focuses on one example at the interface between nature and nurture. Recent research using diverse genetic designs shows that family environment as it is currently assessed involves a substantial contribution from genetic factors. Genetic factors also contribute to correlations between measures of the family environment and developmental outcomes. Implications of these findings are discussed.