A03

• :) genetic expl for schizophrenia is that there's a wealth of supporting evi.

  e.g, family studies have revealed that increased genetic similarity is linked to an increased vulnerability to develop schizophrenia. Similarly, adoption studies also demonstrated that ppl with bio schizophrenic parents are at an increased risk of developing schiz, even if their adopted family has no history of schizo.

  These studies show that genes play an important role and explains why some people are more likely to develop schizophrenia than others.

  Therefore, such findings add validity to genetic expl for schizo.
• :( of the genetic explanation is the clear evidence showing environmental factors also increase the risk of developing schizophrenia.

  Morkved (2017) showed that 67% of people with schizophrenia reported at least one childhood trauma compared to 38% of a non-psychotic mental illness matched group.

  In addition, several studies indicate that environmental factors such as birth complications and cannabis use contribute to the risk of schizophrenia.

  Link: Therefore, this suggests that a comprehensive understanding of schizophrenia requires considering both genetic and environmental influences.
• :) is support for the idea that dopamine is involved in schizophrenia.

  Research by Curran (2004) demonstrates that amphetamines, which increase dopamine, worsen symptoms in schizophrenia, while antipsychotic drugs, which reduce dopamine activity, alleviate symptoms. 

  Additionally, some candidate genes for schizophrenia are linked to dopamine production or receptors.

  Therefore, this supports the dopamine hypothesis as a plausible explanation for schizophrenia symptoms.
• Point: One limitation of the dopamine hypothesis is evidence for a central role of glutamate.

  Evidence: Studies by McCutcheon (2020) have consistently found elevated levels of glutamate in the brains of individuals with schizophrenia. 

  Explain: Additionally, candidate genes for schizophrenia are implicated in glutamate production or processing.

  Link: Therefore, this suggests that schizophrenia may involve complex interactions between multiple neurotransmitters, challenging the dopamine-centric view of the disorder.