Final answer:
The correct option is (D). Resilience is often thought to be a learnable trait shaped by environmental experiences and life events, rather than being solely genetic. Epigenetics demonstrates how gene expression can be altered by external factors, impacting physical traits and behaviors essential for survival.
Step-by-step explanation:
Researchers believe that resilience, rather than being a purely genetic trait, can be learned and developed over time. While certain predispositions to fight or flight responses may be genetically influenced, the capacity for adaptation to environmental conditions is also shaped by experiences. The concept of epigenetics illustrates how environmental exposures and life experiences can lead to heritable changes in gene expression that affect traits. For instance, certain behaviors linked to survival, such as the fight or flight behavior, were naturally selected and became incorporated into human lineage because they increased the likelihood of survival and reproduction. Moreover, studies have demonstrated that some species are plastic, capable of rapid genetic change which contributes to their resilience in changing environments.