What term refers to the study of the influence of heredity and environment on individual differences in human traits?

The term that refers to the study of the influence of heredity and environment on individual differences in human traits is behavior genetics. This field investigates how genetic factors (heredity) contribute to variations in behaviors, cognitive abilities, personality traits, and other psychological characteristics while also considering the role of environmental influences, such as upbringing, culture, and life experiences.

Behavior genetics employs various research methods, including twin studies and adoption studies, to disentangle the effects of nature (genetics) and nurture (environment) on human behavior. This area of study has provided essential insights into how traits are inherited and how they can be modified or influenced by environmental factors, leading to a deeper understanding of human development and individuality.

The other answer choices do not focus specifically on this interplay between heredity and environment. Evolutionary psychology primarily examines how evolutionary processes shape behavior and cognitive functions across generations. Cognitive neuroscience investigates the relationship between brain function and cognitive processes but does not specifically address genetic and environmental influences. Developmental psychology, while studying changes in behavior and psychological processes over the lifespan, does not narrow its focus to genetic and environmental interactions specifically. Thus, behavior genetics is the most accurate term for this particular study.