Final answer:
Shared environmental influences include factors common to a family household, whereas non-shared influences are unique experiences of the individual. Twin studies have shown both shared and non-shared environments shape personal attributes. Environmental contexts affect political, social, and health outcomes.
Step-by-step explanation:
The distinction between shared and non-shared environmental influences is significant in understanding how various factors contribute to the development of individuals, particularly in childhood and adolescence. Shared environmental influences refer to the factors that are common to individuals living in the same household, like socioeconomic status, parenting styles, and neighborhood characteristics. Non-shared environmental influences are unique to each individual and include experiences like personal life events, distinct peer relationships, and any other influences not shared with other family members.
Research utilizing twin studies, especially with identical twins raised apart, has helped to inform our understanding of these influences. These studies highlight that while genetics play a crucial role in development, the environmental context—shared or not—also significantly impacts an individual's characteristics and behaviors. Different social settings, such as the type of schools attended or neighborhoods lived in, can shape different political, social, and health outcomes.
The information mentioned showcases that while shared environments may contribute to similarities between individuals in the same family, non-shared factors lead to differences, highlighting the complexity of environmental influences on human development.