Genetic explanations of OCD Flashcards
How do genes affect mental health?
They determine brain structure which determines our thoughts and behaviours so we can inherit psychological disorders.
What is the diathesis stress model based on?
Results from family and twin studies
What does diathesis mean?
Vulnerability (i.e. due to genes)
What does the diathesis stress model say?
Genetics increase how vulnerable individuals are to developing OCD but the environment determines which of these who are vulnerable develop the illness
What is molecule genetic research for OCD?
It identifies candidate genes which can lead to OCD by comparing genes of those with and without OCD
How many candidates genes have been discovered and what does this mean?
230, showing OCD is polygenic and isn’t caused by just 1 gene.
What are the 2 types of twin studies?
Identical and fraternal
How much DNA do identical twins share?
100%
How much DNA do fraternal twins share?
50%
What is the difference in concordance rate between twin studies?
Identical twins have a higher concordance rate for OCD than fraternal
What is the purpose of twin studies?
To seperate genetic and environmental influences
What is research support for genetic explanations of OCD?
Marini and Stebnicki found a person with a family member diagnosed with OCD is 4x more likely to develop OCD compared to someone without
What are ‘triggers’ for the diathesis stress model?
Traumatic events
What are examples of triggers for OCD?
Illness of self or loved one, non-violet death, witnessing a crime or being a victim of an accident
