Which statement correctly describes the nature vs. nurture relationship in intelligence?

The statement that intelligence results from a complex interaction of genetics and environment reflects the current understanding in psychological research regarding the nature vs. nurture debate. This perspective acknowledges that both genetic predispositions and environmental influences contribute significantly to the development of intelligence.

Genetic factors provide a biological framework, influencing things like cognitive potential and neurological development, while environmental factors, such as educational opportunities, social interactions, and cultural experiences, can enhance or limit the expression of that potential. Research in psychology has consistently shown that neither genes nor environment alone can fully account for individual differences in intelligence; instead, it is the dynamic interplay between these two elements that shapes cognitive abilities across a lifespan.

This view aligns with the notion that intelligence is not a fixed trait but rather a multifaceted construct influenced by various factors, providing a more holistic understanding of how intelligence develops in individuals.