Individuals from dissimilar genetic backgrounds who experience neglect or abuse early in life are more likely to exhibit long-lasting adverse psychological or physical conditions.

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A critique of the range of reaction theory is that genes may not set a fixed limit on a person's potential. An alternative perspective suggests that 'reaction norms' are determined by the environment. This view is supported by evidence showing that severe negative environmental experiences, such as neglect or abuse early in life, can lead to lasting adverse psychological and physical conditions, regardless of an individual's genetic background.

Critique of the Range of Reaction Theory

Spielman, R. M., Jenkins, W. J., & Lovett, M. D. (2020, April 22). Psychology (2nd ed.). OpenStax. https://openstax.org/books/psychology-2e/pages/1-introduction

OpenStax Psychology (2nd ed.) Textbook

A child is born with a genetic predisposition for high athletic ability. However, due to a chronic illness and lack of access to sports facilities during their formative years, they never develop these skills and show below-average physical coordination as an adult. How would a viewpoint that is critical of the idea that 'genes set a fixed limit' interpret this outcome?

Analyze the following scenario and explain why it presents a significant challenge to the idea that an individual's genes establish a fixed potential range for a particular trait.

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