biological explanation: genetic Flashcards
what is the genetic explanation?
SZ is inherited through genes passed down in families
3 parts of the genetic explanation?
- family studies
- candiate genes
- role of mutations
what do family studies look at?
- risk of developing SZ depending on your genetic closeness to people who have SZ
what does Gottesman’s research suggest?
- genetics play vital role in SZ as someone with no relatives with SZ would have 1% chance of developing wheras someone with identical twins would have 48% of developing
- high concordance rate
counters of Gottesman?
- not 100%-> must be other factors like environment eg schizophrenic mother
- only for severe SZ which is more genetically influenced
- outdated- low temporal validity
- ungen-> small sample, cant sep nature/nurture
what do candidate genes suggest about SZ?
SZ caused by a faulty genes (candidate genes) and is polygenic and aetiologically heterogeneous
what does it mean if SZ is polygenic?
SZ is caused by many genes (108 different genetic variations)
what does it mean if SZ is aetiologically heterogenous?
there is many causes/genetic variations causing SZ
what genes were identified to cause SZ?
those that code for transmission of different neurotransmitters (dopamine)
what does mutations suggest about SZ?
- 2/3 of SZ have no relatives with similar diagnosis= no one to inherit from
- mutation in parental DNA that could be caused by radiation, poison, viral infection
what supporting research is there for the explanation?
STRENGTH
-> Gottesman family studies
-> C= issues with research, ignores nurture
what practical applications is there?
- genetic counselling
- way to understand how genetic illness can affect them + family
- have treatment before and reduce risk factors
counter for practical applications?
- socially sensitive if have high risk could cause stress
