Biological Factor: Definition, History, and References
Definition
Biological factors are aspects of an organism’s physical or physiological make-up, such as its genetic material, age, sex, or environment, that can influence its behavior and/or reactions to stimuli. Biological factors are also known as biotic factors, and they can influence an organism’s development, growth, and reproduction. The term “biological factor” is sometimes used interchangeably with “determinants of health” or “environmental factors”.
History
The concept of biological factors has been studied by scientists for centuries. Early investigations into the effects of biological factors on organisms focused on genetics and the role of inherited traits in an individual’s behavior and development. For example, in the 19th century, Gregor Mendel pioneered the field of genetics by studying the inheritance patterns of traits in pea plants.
In the 20th century, researchers began to investigate the role of other biological factors, such as nutrition and hormones, in an organism’s development and behavior. For example, in the 1960s, researchers conducted experiments with rats to examine the effects of stress on behavior. This research led to the development of theories on the role of psychological and physiological factors, such as hormones and neurotransmitters, in behavior.
References
Mendel, G. (1866). Versuche über pflanzen-hybriden. Verhandlungen des naturforschenden Vereins in Brünn.
Selye, H. (1956). The Stress of Life. New York: McGraw-Hill.
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS). (n.d.). What Are Biological Factors? Retrieved from https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/biological-factors/index.cfm.