Evaluation of biological explanations (Genetics) of SZ Flashcards
A03 - Supporting evidence of genetic similarity increases SZ
P - There is supporting evidence that shows fenetic similarity increases likelyhood of SZ.
E - Joseph (2004) found convincing support to show how similar genes can increase the risk of SZ. From pooled data carried out before 2001, he found a 40% concordance rate in SZ for MZ twins (who share 100% genetic similarity). And a 7% for DZ (50% similarity).
E - The higher rate for MZ twins suggests genes have influence on development of SZ.
L - This shows the support of the biological explanation that genes play a role in SZ Development.
- Joseph (2004)
- pooled data before 2001
- 40% concordance MZ
- 7% DZ
A03 - problem with the genetic explanation?
P - However, the faulty genes explanation of SZ is incomplete.
E - Faulty genes can’t be the sole cause of SZ. This is becuase if it was completely up to genes, MZ twins concordance rate for SZ would be 100%, as they share the same genotypes.
E - Thus we must consider other factors that goes into developing SZ, such as enviorment or substance missue like marijuna which increases the likelyhood by 7x
L - This suggests the bio reductionist explanation doesn’t provide full picture of SZ development.
- isn’t 100%
- concordance MZ twins
- geneotypes
- marijuina 7x
A03 - Scientific measurability
P - Another strength is that genetic variation of the C4 gene can be measured scientifically under lab conditions and then compared to normal controls.
E - This provides objective data that this genetic variation can be correlational with the symptoms of SZ. And with such large samples of pt’s we can create general laws that SZ can be put caused by faulty genes.
E - Therefore, the evidence is credible and matches the features of science adding credibility to the idea that SZ can be explained biologically.
- C4 Gene
- scientifcally
- lab conditions/normal controls
- objective data
- genetic variation
- biologically
