Moore Et Al Study (bio)

Question 1

Moore Et Al Study (bio)

Aim

Answer 1

To determine if there is a correlation between 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) and antisocial behavior by analyzing 25 years of research.

Question 2

Moore Et Al Study (bio)

Procedure

Answer 2

• 16 studies were used in the analysis
• Main criteria for inclusion: studies had to b eon human, include measure of 5-IAA from a lumbar puncture, and a measure of antisocial behavior
• Studies were weighted differently based on their findings and participant numbers, overall statistics were computed

Question 3

Moore Et Al Study (bio)

Findings

Answer 3

• Found overall significant negative correlation between serotonin levels (5-HIAA) and antisocial behaviors
• Relationship strongest was when age was accounted for
  
  • Low levels of serotonin have the greatest effect on antisocial behavior in people younger than 30 years old
• Supports a strong correlation between low levels of serotonin and antisocial behavior, but does not provide an explanation

Question 4

Moore Et Al Study (bio)

Strengths

Answer 4

• triangulation of findings from many studies

Question 5

Moore Et Al Study (bio)

Limitations

Answer 5

• Relies on accuracy of 5-HIAA test (may not reflect serotonin in brain)
• Reductionist to believe that a measure of 5-HIAA can be directly connected to serotonin levels and antisocial behaviors (neurotransmitters and their processes are interconnected)
• Bidirectional ambiguity: Perhaps having an antisocial disorder causes the serotonin levels to lower
• Researchers were unable to distinguish violent vs nonviolent offenders as original studies often put both groups together

Question 6

Moore Et Al Study (bio)

Ethical considerations

Answer 6

• N/A (no participnats in their study)

Question 7

Moore Et Al Study (bio)

Research Method

Answer 7

Correlation study