Genetic Explanations

Cards (7)

  • MAOA Gene
    one variant of aggression named as the 'warrior gene'
  • What does the MAOA gene do
    produces the protein monoamine oxidase, which allows for the metabolising of noradrenaline, serotonin and dopamine
  • MAOA-L
    produces less of the enzyme
  • MAOA-H
    Produces more of the enzyme
  • What can MAOA-L result in 

    Neurotransmitters not being broken down in the body, possibly causing fight or flight responses
  • What happens if dopamine is not broken down
    high levels can cause a reduction of control of impulsive behaviour
  • AO3:
    Stuart et al studied 97 men who had been involved in sever domestic abuse to their partners. It was found that the most violent men had the faulty MAOA gene. This piece of research is biologically deterministic as it suggests that aggression is totally down to a specific gene and the level of it in a person, therefore acting as socially sensitive research.