Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Practice

Which developmental perspective primarily affirms the influence of environmental factors on behavior?

1. Nurturist perspective

2. Nativist perspective

3. Combined perspective

4. Continuity perspective

The correct answer is: Nurturist perspective

The nurturist perspective primarily emphasizes the significant role that environmental factors play in shaping behavior and development. This viewpoint asserts that individuals are largely products of their interactions with their surroundings, including family, culture, education, and social experiences. Nurturists argue that behavior is not solely determined by genetic inheritance but is greatly influenced by learning experiences, reinforcement, and environmental stimuli. In contrast, the nativist perspective focuses on the idea that certain behaviors and characteristics are innate and largely predetermined by genetics. The combined perspective integrates elements from both nativist and nurturist viewpoints but does not exclusively affirm the environmental influence as the primary contributor. The continuity perspective looks at development as a gradual, continuous process rather than emphasizing distinct changes influenced by environmental factors. Thus, the nurturist perspective is recognized for its strong assertion of the impact of environmental influences, making it the definitive choice in this context.