Explaining OCD Genetic

Question 1

What does it mean to be genetically vulnerable?

Answer 1

• Some people appear to be predisposed to develop OCD as a result of their genetic makeup

Question 2

What does it mean for OCD to be Polygenic?

Answer 2

• 230 genetic variations may be involved in OCD (Taylor) E.g coding for serotonin

Question 3

How are there different types of OCD?

Answer 3

• Different genetic bases for different types of OCD. e.g hoarding disorder and religious obsessions

Question 4

What are Candidate Genes?

Answer 4

• Some genes have been discovered to create a vulnerability for OCD, these are candidate genes

Question 5

What is the Research Support for Genetic Explanations?

Answer 5

• Research support. 68% MZ twins and 31% DZ twins have OCD, OCD 4 times more likely if a family member has it (Marini and Stebnicki) Valid

Question 6

What is a limitation of the Genetic Exaplanation of OCD?

Answer 6

• Not only genetic, Environmental risk factors also. Over half OCD clients in one sample experienced a traumatic event, and OCD was more severe (Cromer, 2007), Partial explanation