When we discuss “nature vs. nurture,” it often feels as though we are compelled to take sides. Is it biology or the environment that determines who we are? However, what if there is more to this story? By viewing human traits as existing along a continuum—from purely biological to greatly influenced by the environment—we can transcend the binary debate and uncover the intricate interaction between our genes and experiences. This perspective provides exciting insights, particularly in understanding neurodiversity. By placing traits on a spectrum, we can gain a better understanding of why some are closely “hardwired” by biology, while others, such as neurodevelopmental conditions like ADHD or autism, exist in a state of fluidity, significantly shaped by an individual’s environment.
We can categorise traits into three primary domains to clarify these interacting forces. Developmental Epigenetic Modifications (DEM) describe traits that are predominantly dictated by genetics. Metabolic Epigenetic Modifications (MEM) represent traits influenced equally by both genes and the environment. Lastly, Cognitive Epigenetic Modifications (CEM) define traits that heavily rely on environment and experience. Understanding these domains will assist educators, parents, and the neurodiverse community in empowering individuals to thrive and in adapting systems that truly support the richness of neurodiversity.
At one end of the spectrum are traits instilled in us from birth, dictated entirely by our genetic programming. These are known as Developmental Epigenetic Modifications (DEM)—the fundamental building blocks of life. Consider them as the “blueprint” that ensures we develop a body complete with a skeleton, organs, tissues, and nervous system. Regardless of where we are born or how we are raised, these physical structures form in predictable ways because our genes pre-program them into existence.
DEM encompasses not…