Physical Self
Physical Self: The Biological Blue Print
While our genetic information determines the extent of our physical features, it is not the
only factor that influences our physical self. As we grow up, we are exposed to
environmental influences that shape our physical self, including those from our social
networks, societal expectations, and cultural practices.
This unit identifies and explains the biological and environmental factors that shape the
physical self. It also delves into socio-cultural issues associated with physical well-
being.
The Physical Self is shaped by the following
biological and environmental factors:
o Heredity is defined as the transmission of traits from parents to offspring. The
traits are made up of specific information embedded within one’s gene.
o Genotype refers to the specific information embedded within one’s genes; not all
genotypes translate to an observed physical characteristic.
o Phenotype is the physical expression of a particular trait.
o Each individual carries 23 pairs of chromosomes, which are threadlike bodies in
the nucleus of the cell and the storage unit of genes. The 23rd pair, also known
as sex chromosomes, determines the sex of an individual.
o Within each chromosome is the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), which is a
nucleic acid that contains the genetic instructions specifying the biological
development of every individual.
o Maturation is known as the completion of growth of a genetic character within
an organism or the unfolding of an individual’s inherent traits or potential.
o One aspect of physical beauty is a person’s body type. Contemporary media
has portrayed slim bodies as the ideal body type for women and muscular bodies
for men. Thus, adolescents indulge in activities that would enable them to
achieve these ideal body types.
o However, some adolescents may resort to unhealthy habits just to achieve the
ideal body type. It is important to remember that physical beauty is only skin-
deep; that what matters is feeling good about oneself and embracing a healthy
perception of life.
Environmental Conditioning
Physical Self: The Biological Blue Print
While our genetic information determines the extent of our physical features, it is not the
only factor that influences our physical self. As we grow up, we are exposed to
environmental influences that shape our physical self, including those from our social
networks, societal expectations, and cultural practices.
This unit identifies and explains the biological and environmental factors that shape the
physical self. It also delves into socio-cultural issues associated with physical well-
being.
The Physical Self is shaped by the following
biological and environmental factors:
o Heredity is defined as the transmission of traits from parents to offspring. The
traits are made up of specific information embedded within one’s gene.
o Genotype refers to the specific information embedded within one’s genes; not all
genotypes translate to an observed physical characteristic.
o Phenotype is the physical expression of a particular trait.
o Each individual carries 23 pairs of chromosomes, which are threadlike bodies in
the nucleus of the cell and the storage unit of genes. The 23rd pair, also known
as sex chromosomes, determines the sex of an individual.
o Within each chromosome is the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), which is a
nucleic acid that contains the genetic instructions specifying the biological
development of every individual.
o Maturation is known as the completion of growth of a genetic character within
an organism or the unfolding of an individual’s inherent traits or potential.
o One aspect of physical beauty is a person’s body type. Contemporary media
has portrayed slim bodies as the ideal body type for women and muscular bodies
for men. Thus, adolescents indulge in activities that would enable them to
achieve these ideal body types.
o However, some adolescents may resort to unhealthy habits just to achieve the
ideal body type. It is important to remember that physical beauty is only skin-
deep; that what matters is feeling good about oneself and embracing a healthy
perception of life.
Environmental Conditioning
