ABSTRACT
Genes, the brain, body, and emotions are key factors in the creation of the family system. This chapter explores the evidence for autonomy and adaptation in the genetic and individual systems. Evidence is provided of how genes and epigenetics create an autonomous and adaptable genetic system. Particular attention is paid to how natural selection affects our social relationships and epigenetic ways in which experiences can be passed intergenerationally. Evidence of how the brain, body, emotions, and emotional regulation create an autonomous and adaptable individual system is provided. Drawing on research from the polyvagal theory and affective neuroscience, a discussion of how the human nervous system and brain evolved to be autonomous and adaptable is given.
