Genetic Factors Flashcards
What do twin studies tell us about aggression?
MZ twins are genetically identical and have more similar levels of aggression than DZ twins which points to a genetic influence.
How much do genetic factors account for of variance in aggressive behaviour?
50%
What do adoption studies tell us about aggression?
Its possible to disentangle genetic factors and environmental factors by comparing adopted children and biological parents.
Give a study for adoption influence on aggression.
Children with criminal convictions had fathers with criminal convictions.
What is the gene for aggression?
The gene that produces the protein MAOA.
What does MAOA do?
It regulates serotonin in the brain.
How does MAOA relate to aggression?
Violent men had low levels of MAOA.
MAOA is linked to aggression in children.
How does genetics link to violent crime?
Inherited temperament or personality characteristics place some individuals at risk of commiting violent crime?
Give a study about genetics and violent crime.
Genetic influences are significant in property crime but not violent crime.
