Gottesman Et Al

Question 1

Background

Answer 1

Genetic explanation- we inherit characteristics from our parents who pass their genes on to us

Question 2

Aim

Answer 2

To investigate whether two parents with mental disorders would increase the probability that their child would be diagnosed with a mental disorder

Question 3

Method

Answer 3

Cohort study- looking at population born between two dates
Quasi experiment
IV- parental sz or bipolar
DV- diagnosis of mental illness in child

Question 4

Sample

Answer 4

2.7 mil Danish people born before 1997
Sampled 2007 min age 10
196 couples both with SZ + their 270 children
83 couples both with bipolar + their 146 children

Question 5

Procedure

Answer 5

Group A- 2 parents with SZ or BPD
Group B- 1 parent with SZ or BPD
Group C- No parent with either
Group D- General public with no data about mental illness

Question 6

Results

Answer 6

Group A- 67.5% risk of mental illness
Group B & C- 11.9% risk of mental illness

Question 7

Conclusions

Answer 7

1. Both parents with mental illness is associated with significantly higher risk of developing a mental disorder
2. Having one parent with serious mental illness carries lower risk
3. Study could be useful for people making decisions about their future