Genes - Aggression Flashcards

1
Q

Why are twin studies used in studying aggression?

A

To see if there is a high concordance rate between Mz twins which might conclude that there is a genetic cause for aggression

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2
Q

What can Mz twins be compared with?

A

Dz twins as only 50% of their genes are identical allowing us to see if genes or nurture cause aggression. But Mz twins also normally share a more similar environment so aggression may not only be down to shared genes.

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3
Q

Why are adoption studies used when studying aggression?

A

To see if adopted children from aggressive families become aggressive. See if aggression is nature or nurture.

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4
Q

What does MAOA do?

A

Is an enzyme which breaks down dopamine, serotonin and noradrenaline.

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5
Q

What happens if there is not enough MAOA?

A

Levels of dopamine, serotonin and noradrenaline are abnormally high which is associated with high levels of aggression.

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6
Q

What did Burennert et al do?

A

Studied a Dutch family where the men were often aggressive and violent. E.g arson, attempted rape and exhibitionism

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7
Q

What did Burennert’s study show?

A

Urine samples showed 3 of the men had a disturbance of monoamine metabolism = a difference in how their bodies were using MAOA - maybe MAOA deficiency

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8
Q

What issue can Burennert’s study be used for?

A

Psychology as a science = His study is very scientific. Tried as much as possible to be scientific. BUT this family could have a one off variant for MAOA - can’t generalise

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9
Q

What did Miles do?

A

Meta-analysis of 24 studies

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10
Q

What did Miles’ study find?

A
  • Strong overall genetic effect that many account for up to 50% of the variance in aggression
  • Self-reports and parental ratings showed genes and family environment were causes of aggression + that family influence decreased later in life while genes influence increased.
  • Lab studies showed no evidence for genes BUT a very strong family environment effect
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