Brunner: genetic mutations (Biological)

Question 1

Method?

Answer 1

Quasi natural/ correlation

Question 2

Sample?

Answer 2

5 affected males within one Netherland family

Question 3

Procedure?

Answer 3

Data collected from analysis of urine samples over 24 hours and an IQ test

Question 4

Results?

Answer 4

• all had mental retardation (mean IQ under 85)
• urine tests= lack of enzyme MOAO
• DNA: mutation identified in X chromosome (gene responsible for producing MAOA)

Question 5

Possible explanation?

Answer 5

• MAOA involved in serotonin metabolism (neurotransmitter involved in anger and aggression)
• Males had abnormally high levels of serotonin in which could have made them resistant

Question 6

Conclusions?

Answer 6

• gene mutations can be responsible for aggressive behaviour, could lead to criminal
• defect in gene led to MAOA deficiency
• may account for inability for males to regulate aggression

Question 7

Strengths?

Answer 7

• urine samples= objective+support psychology as a science
• ecologically valid as didn’t create the aggressive tendencies
• standardised= internal reliability

Question 8

Weaknesses?

Answer 8

• urine samples= don’t offer cause and effect
• reductionist as doesn’t take nurture into account
• low population validity= cannot generalise to wider population

Question 9

Aim?

Answer 9

To explain the behaviour of a large family in the Netherlands where the males are affected by mental retardation and abnormal violent behaviour