Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 2, 2026
09:07
Protocol for Studying Extinction of Conditioned Fear in Naturally Cycling Female Rats
Published on: February 23, 2015
Neuroticism, major depression and gender: a population-based twin study
A Fanous1, C O Gardner, C A Prescott
1Department of Psychiatry, Medical College of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University and Virginia Institute for Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics, Richmond, USA.
Psychological Medicine
|July 10, 2002
Summary
Genetic factors link neuroticism (N) and major depression (MD). This study found no significant sex difference in their genetic correlation, suggesting shared genetic influences on these traits in both men and women.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Genetics
- Psychiatry
- Human Genetics
Background:
- Neuroticism (N) and major depression (MD) share genetic risk factors.
- Females exhibit higher N and MD rates, suggesting potential sex differences in genetic correlation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the genetic correlation between neuroticism and major depression.
- To determine if this genetic correlation differs between sexes.
Main Methods:
- Utilized twin studies (MZ and DZ pairs) with structured interviews for MD (DSM-III-R) and the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire for N.
- Applied a sex-limited Cholesky model to analyze genetic and environmental components of N and MD correlations.
Main Results:
- The best-fitting model included additive genetic and individual-specific environmental factors for N and MD.
- Within-sex genetic correlations were +0.68 in men and +0.49 in women.
- A model constraining the genetic correlation equally across sexes (+0.55) fit nearly as well, indicating no significant sex difference.
Conclusions:
- No significant sex difference was found in the genetic correlation between neuroticism and major depression.
- Results suggest shared genetic influences and potential sex-specific genetic factors for N and MD.
- Findings have implications for affective disorder classification, treatment, and molecular genetic research.
Related Concept Videos
01:18Depression: Overview
Depression is a prevalent mental illness marked by persistent sadness and lack of interest in previously enjoyable activities. It can take several forms, including major depression, persistent depressive disorder, and bipolar I and II disorders. Symptoms range from emotional changes like chronic worry to physical changes like sleep disturbances and suicidal thoughts. From a neurobiological perspective, depression is believed to be triggered by abnormalities in the brain's prefrontal cortex,...
01:28Human Genetics
Human genetics provides a profound framework for understanding the interplay between genetic predispositions and human psychology. At the heart of this discipline lies the study of how genes influence physical traits, behaviors, and susceptibility to diseases. Each person carries a unique genetic code that subtly or significantly shapes their psychological and behavioral landscape.
The complex relationship between genetics and psychology is observable through common biological components such...
The complex relationship between genetics and psychology is observable through common biological components such...
01:27Panic Disorder
Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent and sudden minutes-long episodes of intense fear, known as panic attacks. These attacks may feel like heart attacks and often happen without warning or a specific cause. They can include symptoms such as rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, chest pain, trembling, sweating, dizziness, and a sense of helplessness. During a panic attack, individuals may feel as though they are experiencing a heart attack or are in a...
01:30Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a chronic mental health condition marked by significant mood fluctuations, including episodes of mania and depression. Elevated energy levels, heightened mood or irritability, impulsive behavior, reduced sleep needs, rapid speech, racing thoughts, inflated self-esteem, and distractibility characterize mania. Individuals with bipolar disorder often alternate between depressive and manic states, with periods of emotional stability lasting an average of six months to a year.
01:28Anorexia Nervosa
Anorexia nervosa is a complex and severe eating disorder characterized by an intense fear of weight gain, an unrelenting pursuit of thinness, and a distorted body image. It often leads to dangerously low body weight relative to an individual's age and height. This disorder is marked by significant physical and psychological consequences, making it one of the most life-threatening psychiatric illnesses.
Symptoms and Physical Effects
Individuals with anorexia nervosa commonly exhibit extreme...
Symptoms and Physical Effects
Individuals with anorexia nervosa commonly exhibit extreme...
01:27Depressive Disorders: Etiology
Depressive disorders result from a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors, each contributing uniquely to the development and persistence of the condition. Understanding these factors provides critical insight into the multifaceted nature of depression.
Biological Factors in Depression
Biological predispositions significantly influence the risk of developing depressive disorders. Genetic studies highlight the role of variations in the serotonin transporter...
Biological Factors in Depression
Biological predispositions significantly influence the risk of developing depressive disorders. Genetic studies highlight the role of variations in the serotonin transporter...