Object relations theory states that psyche of a person is formed in relation to others in the environment during the childhood (American Psychological Association, 2010). In other words, all peoples responses to particular situations are stipulated by family experiences gained during the first stages of their lives. At the same time, there are vigorous debates about the impact genetics and environment have on an individuals development. There are two perspectives on the issue. The first one assumes that genetics predetermines a persons individuality and behavior while the second one emphasizes the role of the environment as the basic factor impacting an individual and his/her reactions (Winkler & Jolly, 2012). Regarding the object relations theory, the environmental factor becomes central for its theorists as a person evolves interacting with objects that surround him/her.
References
American Psychological Association (2010). Publication manual of the American Psychological Association. Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.
Winkler, D., & Jolly, J. (2012). Nativists and environmentalists: A history of disagreement. Gifted Child Today, 35(2), 146-149. Web.