Social Psychology (9th Edition)
Social Psychology (9th Edition)
9th Edition
ISBN: 9780133936544
Author: Elliot Aronson, Timothy D. Wilson, Robin M. Akert, Samuel R. Sommers
Publisher: PEARSON
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Chapter 7, Problem 1RQ1
Summary Introduction

Introduction

Attitudes are the way people evaluate the world around them. Attitudes describe how someone feels about something (do they like it or dislike it?) and influence behaviors. The correct answer is option (c).

Expert Solution & Answer
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Explanation of Solution

Correct answer and explanation

Attitudes are not fully determined by our genetic makeup nor our environment. They can, however, be indirectly linked to genetics. Temperament and personality are aspects that are often genetically inherited. People develop similar attitudes to their parents, or other relatives, based on what they inherit. For example, they may have a similar like or dislike of a certain food. Social experiences that occur across the lifespan can later shape these attitudes, but attitudes also possess a genetic component.

Explanations for incorrect options

Option (a) states that attitudes “do not seem to have any genetic component.” However, research on twins shows that identical twins (twins with the same genetic makeup) share more attitudes than fraternal twins, even when raised in different environments. Therefore, there is a genetic component to attitudes. So, option (a) is incorrect.

Option (b) states that attitudes are strictly defined by our genetic makeup, with little impact by environmental factors. However, research by social psychologists has shown that social experiences, thoughts, and emotions can all shape attitudes. So, option (b) is incorrect.

Option (d) states that both fraternal and identical twins are likely to share similar attitudes. However, research has shown that identical twins are more likely to share attitudes than fraternal twins. So, option (d) is incorrect.

Therefore, the options (a), (b), and (d) are incorrect.

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