Biological Explanations - Genetic Theory

Question 1

AO1

Answer 1

• the genetic explanations states that SZ is hereditary and is passed on from one generation to the next genes
• A person is born with a genetic predisposition to SZ. It is believed that several maladaptive candidate genes such as PCM1 are involved which increases an individuals vulnerability to developing SZ. Studies have shown that 108 separate genetic variations are associated in the risk of developing SZ
• GOTTESMAN 1991 studied 40 twins and found that the concordance rate for monozygotic twins was 48% and only 17% for dizygotic twins. Therefore the close the genetic link to somebody with SZ the more chance of developing SZ

Question 2

AO3

Answer 2

P- Research to support the role of genetics in the development of SZ comes from TIERNEY.

E - He studied 155 adopted children who had biological mothers with SZ and found that they had a concordance rate of 10% compared to 1% in adopted children without schizophrenic mothers.

E- this provides significant support for the role of the genetics as the role of social learning theory could not have been a factor as children were adopted.

L- Therefore increasing the validity of genetics as a biological explanation in SZ