Final answer:
In an adoption study, resemblances are measured between the adopted child and both their biological and adoptive parents. This method helps researchers understand the influence of genetics (nature) and environment (nurture) on an individual's development.
Step-by-step explanation:
In an adoption study, resemblances are measured between the adopted child and d. both biological parent and adoptive parent. This approach allows researchers to distinguish the effects of genetics from those of the environment. An adopted child's biological parents provide the genetic component of their development, while the adoptive parents and siblings contribute to the environmental aspect, including upbringing and socialization.
Adoption studies are a key method in behavioral genetics and help in understanding how heredity and environment influence traits and behaviors. By comparing the similarities between adopted children and their biological as well as adoptive families, researchers gain insights into the relative contributions of nature and nurture.
Adoptive parent-child pairs, informal adoption, and the cultural definitions and roles of kinship play significant roles in shaping individuals' development beyond their genetic makeup. These studies also underscore how adopted children can form strong bonds and develop traits in common with their adoptive families despite the lack of a biological connection.