Which of these research methods would a psychologist be likely to employ to study the influence of genetics on personality?
A) examining correlations in personality between pairs of identical and fraternal twins
B) interviewing people who have known others who were particularly odd or unique
C) administering paper and pencil or computerized questionnaires to hundreds of people
D) documenting the patterns of development and difficulties of psychiatric patients

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Studying correlations in personality between pairs of identical and fraternal twins is a common research method used to study the influence of genetics on personality. Identical twins share 100% of their genes, while fraternal twins share approximately 50% of their genes. By comparing the correlation of personality traits between these two types of twins, psychologists can estimate how much of a role genetics plays in personality.

Which of These Research Methods Would a Psychologist Be Likely