Genetic and Neural explanations of Aggression

Question 1

A01 - Genetic = Candidate Genes

Answer 1

• Candidate gene MAOA-L is associated with aggression and is more prevalent in areas with a history of warfare and civil unrest
• The gene instructs the production of a protein that regulates neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and noradrenaline
• However, the presence of the MAOA-L gene disrupts the metabolism of these neurotransmitters, leading to constant activation of the flight or fight response and heightened sensitivity to stress
• If one inherits the low-activity version of this gene, they may find disruption in social decision-making, leading to more aggressive behaviours.
• Research suggests that the MAOA gene is only activated when an individual is exposed to a triggering environment, explained by the diathesis-stress model
• The model for explaining aggression suggests that the MAOA gene develops when a person has a vulnerability or predisposition and is exposed to stressful-life events