Addiction Genes Evaluation Flashcards
Genetic influence on addiction (strength )
P-Twin studies show a greater genetic influence on becomeing addicted (maintainace) than on starting (initiation) drug use
E- Kendler and Prescott found a
Concordance rate for cocaine initiation was higher in MZ twins (54%) than DZ twins (42%).
Dependence rate was an even larger gap with MZ(35%) than DZ(0%)
E-Even though there may be some social/ environmental factors may influence if someone tries the drug the likelihood of becoming addicted is heavily influence by genetics.
The stronger concordance rate in MZ twins who share 100% of therapies genes supports the idea that genetics play an important role in development of addiction once drug use has begun
Specific genes linked to addiction (strength )
P- everal specific genes, such as DRD2 and ADH have been identified as influencing addiction
E- Ojlade et al found when RsU1 gene didn’t function correctly in fruit files, their sensitivity to alcohol decreased.
When brain imaging was conducted on humans they found a relationship between the RsU1 gene and alcohol dependence.
E- suggest that addiction is not controlled by a single gene but a complex network of genes. RsU1 influence on alchol sensitivity supports idea that genetic influence on genetic variations can affect an individuals vulnerability to addiction.
Role of social and cultural factors
P-Genetic explanations of addiction can be criticised for ignoring the influence of social and cultural factors
E-Kendler et al- found heritability of smoking behaviour in women born between 1910-1958 was relatively low in earlier generations but increased to 60 % in later generations, as smoking became more socially acceptable for women
E- this study shows that genetic predispositions may only be expressed in certain social/ cultural environments and because of the change in social attitudes smoking in women increased. -
E-Boardman et al found the smoking in students was also influenced by social factors such as ever pressure, despite genetic predispositions
Therefore, social and cultural factors play a critical role in whether genetic tendencies toward addiction are realized, suggesting that genetics alone cannot fully explain addiction.
Conclusion
Overall, while genetic factors play a significant role in the development and maintenance of addiction, they cannot be viewed in isolation.
Twin studies and the identification of specific genes, such as DRD2 and RsU1, provide strong evidence for a biological basis of addiction, particularly in determining who is more likely to become dependent.
However, the deterministic nature of genetic explanations raises concerns about undermining personal responsibility in recovery which could lead to psychological harm.
Additionally, genetic predispositions are influenced by social and cultural ,This suggests that a more comprehensive understanding of addiction must consider the interaction between genetic vulnerabilities and environmental influences, rather than relying solely on biology.
