Evidence of a gene X environment interaction in the creation of victimization: Results from a longitudinal sample of adolescents

Citation

Beaver, Kevin M.; Wright, John P.; DeLisi, Matt; Daigle, Leah E.; Swatt, Marc L.; & Gibson, Chris L. (2007). Evidence of a gene X environment interaction in the creation of victimization: Results from a longitudinal sample of adolescents. International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology. vol. 51 (6) pp. 620-645

Abstract

A large body of research has revealed that aggressive personality traits and violent criminal behaviors are influenced by genetic factors. Surprisingly, however, no research has been devoted to investigating the potential genetic origins to adolescent victimization. In the current study, the authors address this gap in the literature by using data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (Add Health) to examine whether different variants of the dopamine D2 receptor gene (DRD2) are related to victimization, net of the effects of environmental measures. The results of the multivariate models revealed a significant gene X environment interaction in the creation of victimization for White males. Specifically, DRD2 interacted with delinquent peers to predict victimization. The authors discuss the implications of these findings.

URL

http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0306624X07304157

Reference Type

Journal Article

Journal Title

International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology

Author(s)

Beaver, Kevin M.
Wright, John P.
DeLisi, Matt
Daigle, Leah E.
Swatt, Marc L.
Gibson, Chris L.

Year Published

2007

Volume Number

51

Issue Number

6

Pages

620-645

DOI

10.1177/0306624X07304157

Reference ID

634