Final answer:
According to evolutionary psychologists, organisms can inherit species-specific behaviors, which are behaviors that have a genetic basis and have evolved as adaptations to improve survival and reproduction chances. The genetic influence on behavior is studied alongside environmental factors, noting that while genetics plays a role, the adaptiveness of these behaviors in modern times is not always clear.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to evolutionary psychologists, organisms can inherit species-specific behaviors. This means that certain behaviors can be passed down genetically from one generation to the next if they improve an organism's chances of survival and reproduction. These behaviors, ranging from fear responses and food preferences to mate selection and cooperative behaviors, have likely evolved as adaptations over millions of years and are partially influenced by genetic factors.
While the environment plays a significant role in shaping behavior, especially through learning, there are inherent behaviors believed to be encoded in our genes. These include instinctive actions like a newborn's sucking reflex or the innate tendencies that drive social behavior, such as the drive for group belonging and approval. However, pinpointing the genetic basis of complex behaviors and distinguishing them from cultural influences remain a challenging aspect of evolutionary psychology.
To clarify the evolutionary basis of behavior, studies often utilize methodologies like twin and adoption studies. These help to assess the relative contribution of genetics and environment on behavioral traits. However, we must also consider that the circumstances under which these traits evolved are different from current conditions, making the adaptiveness of certain behaviors in the modern context ambiguous.