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Cuts Both Ways

TED Radio Hour

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Genes and the Environment Shape Who We Are, Not Parents or Home

Turns out, who we are is shaped by our genes and something in the environment, but not our parents. Studies have shown that growing up in the same home doesn't make children more similar in success, happiness, or self-reliance. It's not about the upbringing, but rather genetic variants that may influence behavior. These surprising findings come from studies on twins, siblings, and adopted individuals, revealing that family dynamics play a minimal role in shaping who we become.

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