Child Psychology – Genes, the Environment and Mental Health

About this Course

About the Course

In this course, Professor Yulia Kovas (Goldsmiths, University of London) explores the interactions between genes, mental health, and development. In the first lecture, we think about what genes are from biological and conceptual perspectives. In the second lecture, we think about some ways in which genes and the environment interact, including a brief introduction to epigenetics. In the third lecture, we think about how genes and the environment can impact mental health, including the way in which early trauma can impact later life. Next, we think about the interplay between personality characteristics, genes, and life outcomes. In the fifth and final lecture, we think about what it means to be living in the genomic era, wherein the human genome has been fully sequenced.

About the Lecturer

Professor Yulia Kovas is a professor of genetics and psychology in the Department of Psychology at Goldsmiths, University of London. Professor Kovas’ research interests include the development of individual differences in cognitive abilities, emotional and motivational processes, and academic achievement. Some of Professor Kovas’ recent publications include 'Individual differences in mathematical ability: A behavioral genetic approach' (2015) and 'Math anxiety in children with and without mathematical difficulties: the role of gender and genetic factors' (2019).