Gene by social context interactions for number of sexual partners among White male youths: Genetics-informed sociology

Citation

Guo, G.; Tong, Y.; & Cai, T. (2008). Gene by social context interactions for number of sexual partners among White male youths: Genetics-informed sociology. American Journal of Sociology. vol. 114 (1) pp. S36-S66

Abstract

This study sets out to investigate whether introducing molecular genetic measures into an analysis of sexual partner variety will yield novel sociological insights. The data source is the white male DNA sample in the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health. The authors' empirical gene-environment interaction analysis produces a robust protective effect of the 9R/9R genotype relative to the Any10R genotype in the dopamine transporter gene (DAT1). This protective effect tends to be lost in schools in which higher proportions of students start having sex early, as well as in individuals with relatively low cognitive ability. The genetics-informed socio logical analysis here suggests that explaining a human trait or behavior may require a theory that accommodates the complex interplay between social contextual and individual influences and genetic predispositions.

URL

http://dx.doi.org/10.1086%2F592207

Keyword(s)

Genetic

Reference Type

Journal Article

Journal Title

American Journal of Sociology

Author(s)

Guo, G.
Tong, Y.
Cai, T.

Year Published

2008

Volume Number

114

Issue Number

1

Pages

S36-S66

DOI

10.1086/592207

Reference ID

918