Question

Even in her early 60s, Theresa has a full head of dark hair with not a hint of gray. When people ask why, she explains that her mother didn't start turning gray until her mid-70s. Which of the following is the likely cause of Theresa's still-colorful hair?
a. life-cycle forces
b. sociocultural forces
c. biological forces
d. psychological forces

Answer 1

Answer:

The correct answer to the question is c. biological forces.

Explanation:

• This is because Theresa says that her mother also had the same trait of non-greying of hairs till later age.
• Theresa must have inherited the gene responsible for maintaining dark hair for a long period of time from her mother when she was born.
• The gene must code for melanin production in hairs as darkening of hair or skin is mediated by the protein melanin.
• This gene might have been dominantly expressed in Theresa as she is capable of retaining her mother's characteristics till older age.