The debate as to whether bullies are naturally born as aggressive and dominant versus if the environment plays a part in their behavior still raises questions among researchers. The debate is referred to as the Nature vs Nurture. In the context of the debate, nature refers to behavior that is influenced by either genetic interaction or hormonal change. On the other hand, nurture refers to behavioral development or change as a result of the interaction of an individual with the environment, experiences and/or culture (Good Therapy, 2018). Using a combination of logical reasoning and scientific results, this essay proves that bullies are made, not born.
Genetic have an influence on human behavior and traits as studies in twins show. Independent studies also show that certain conditions, such as bipolar and schizophrenia, are naturally inherited. Offspring borne of either bipolar parents have high chances, up to six times, of developing bipolar (Good Therapy, 2018). However, studies in twins show that there is only a 50% chance of one twin developing a mental health issue if the other develops. This indicates that it is not entirely a genetic factor. Jim Fallon supports this line of thought. Fallon, a neuroscientist, who believes that some mental health issues are as a result of culture and exposure. It was found out that Fallon had a psychotic mind but never turned out to be a psychopath. He turned out normal because of the environment he grew up in and the love from his family. For him, there was a risk factor, but he never became a psychopath because of the environment. This argument proves that in the event an individual has a genetic factor associated with a particular condition, expression of the trait might fail to occur as a result of environmental or cultural factors.
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However, bullying is as a result of environmental, social and cultural factors alone. Bullying is considered an aggressive and violent behavior, which could not be further from the truth. According to the Theory of Social Learning, violent behavior is imitated (Grille, n.d). The theory, therefore, means that children tend to copy what either their parents or people they look up to do. Studies supporting that theory show that children who were reported as bullies came from violent families. Similarly, Scaccia (2016) states that parents have a significant influence on their children. Negative parental behavior is associated with feelings of frustration, development of quick tempers in children and impulsivity, all of which are exhibited by bullies. Understanding that violent behavior is imitated was the reasoning behind developing a course of action for children identified as bullies in schools where provisions for guidance and counselling are made.
Genetic factors influence certain aspects of an individual. However, with the right guidance and environment, the traits are sometimes not expressed, as shown in Fallon’s case. Genetically influenced traits can, therefore, be modified if the external environment is changed. This explains the reason why bullying might not necessarily be genetically linked. Using the theory of Social Learning, it is evident that violent behavior is either learned or imitated. Risk factors for bullies, such as frustration and quick temper, are associated with poor parental guidance. The linkage shown by these trends proves that bullies are nurtured, not born as bullies.
References
Grille, Robin. (n.d). Natural Born Bullies. Natural Child Project. Retrieved from https://www.naturalchild.org/articles/robin_grille/natural_born_bullies.html . Accessed on March 25, 2020
Scaccia, Annamarya. (2016). Nature vs. Nurture: How Much Influence Do Parents Have? Healthline Parenthood. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/parenting/nuture-vs-nature . Accessed on March 25, 2020
Good Therapy. (2018). Nature vs. Nurture Debate. Good Therapy. Retrieved from https://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/psychpedia/nature-versus-nurture . Accessed on March 25, 2020
