ABSTRACT
This chapter considers some theoretical frameworks for development that place a heavy emphasis upon biology. First it discusses how far Charles Darwin (1809-1882) really influenced various theoretical traditions in developmental psychology, then it consider more recent applications of evolutionary theory, including ethology, sociobiology and evolutionary developmental psychology. Finally it examines the behaviour genetics and neurological perspectives on development, and how the nature-nurture debate is being revolutionalized by recent research in epigenetics. Darwin's impact on the discipline of biology was, of course, profound. It has been described as a metatheory, or broad perspective, which may vary in its usefulness and within which more specific theories can be developed and tested. It is often assumed, and promulgated in populist literature, that genes determine brain structure, which in turn determines behaviour. The pervasiveness of the medical model in western societies may encourage certain behaviours to become seen by the public as problematic and needing medical attention.
