Environmental Factors> Socio-economic Status

Socio-economic status (SES) - which includes family income, education, and job status - influences both intelligence and personality development in children.

• Children from wealthier families receive: More books, better schools, and greater parental support. Richer environments that encourage learning and problem-solving.
• Research example: Adopted children raised in affluent homes have higher IQs than their genetically similar siblings raised in less privileged families.
• Overall, both environment and heredity matter, but environment shapes how much potential is realized.

• SES affects how parents raise children: Wealthy families tend to promote independence and provide emotional support. Lower SES often leads to stress, strictness, and fewer learning opportunities.
• Societies with food security (i.e., “high SES”) focus on responsibility and obedience; food-insecure societies encourage self-reliance and achievement.

Imagine two students:

• Riya’s family is financially stable and encourages her studies. She has books and internet access.
• Sohan’s family struggles financially; he shares a textbook with siblings and has little help with homework.

Riya is more likely to perform well and feel confident, while Sohan may face challenges in learning and adjustment.

• Both family environment and genes influence intelligence and personality.
• Better SES gives children more opportunities to succeed in school and life.
• Improving the home environment can boost intellectual and emotional growth.