Epigenetics provides the opportunity to revolutionize our understanding of the role of genetics and the environment in explaining human behavior, although the use of epigenetics to study human behavior is just beginning. In this introduction, the authors present the basics of epigenetics in a way that is designed to make this exciting field…

An experiment was performed to determine if unfamiliar laboratory conditions can affect infant research results. (JMB)

Preschool children were rated in a variety of classroom situations to determine if they displayed consistent behaviors within and across settings. Each assessment was based on a 15-minute observation of the child. Results suggest that enduring response patterns can be identified, but only in relation to particular situations. (Author/CS)

The genetic and environmental etiologies of sex-typed behavior were examined during the preschool years in a sample of 3,990 three- to four-year-old twin and nontwin sibling pairs. Results showed moderate genetic and significant shared environmental influence for boys and substantial genetic and moderate shared environmental influence for girls.…

Significant correlations were obtained between the language comprehension scores of the children and both the quality of the task directed to them and the way in which the nursery was organized. (Authors)

Examines the child-rearing attitudes and behavior of 96 mothers of preschool children living in mining and rural towns in inland Australia in terms of the influences of three factors outside the home: father's absence because of work demands, community characteristics, and mother's informational support. (HOD)