Behavioral Genetics
Three genes and relationship to psychological functioning
Some genes have been associated with certain psychological functions. Among them is the dopamine receptor D4 gene. Scientists have established that this gene has a repeated correlation with impulsive response modes on the human psychology. The second gene is the catechol-o-methyl transferase gene. This gene is highly linked with cognitive behavior and task orientation in the human mind. The major aspect of the gene is to execute different functions such as experiencing rewards. The catechol-o-methyl transferase gene is also associated with response to stimulant in children. Both genes exhibit some strong associations with schizophrenia and schizotypal behaviors. The final gene is the IQ gene, which is normally considered as the smart gene. This gene is located in the brain cells and is associated with the functioning of the memory. This gene is the central criterion for defining the level of intelligence in animals.
Possible implications of the project on humanity
Scientists in the behavioral genetics field claim that genetics is the basis of various human behavior; these includes behaviors such as aggression, homosexuality, and impulsivity. Scientific studies reveal that genes and behavior have made significant contributions to the belief that genetics is the key factor used to determine human behavior. This project elicits controversy of nature versus nurture. Some people believe that human behaviors are because of the surrounding environmental influence. This debate raises new questions as years pass by, reigniting in response to genetic analyses of behaviors such as homosexuality and intelligence. A genetic diagnosis of such behavior would have serious consequences on humanity. If we find a “homosexual gene”, there will be lesser tolerance to the gene in the human society. This will result to proposals that those individuals affected by the abnormal disorder be treated and cured. The human society will put forth measures designed to prevent any future newborns afflicted with the gene.
There are a number of scientific obstacles observed in trying to relate an individual’s genes and behavior. It is difficult to define a certain endpoint that characterizes a condition such as intelligence. Another obstacle is in excluding any other factors that could have the potentials of causing the condition. Therefore, any other factors of discoveries in behavioral genetics must not be perceived as impossible until there is enough scientific corroboration.
