Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 1, 2026

Assessment and Evaluation of the High Risk Neonate: The NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale
Published on: August 25, 2014
Association of maternal dopamine transporter genotype with negative parenting: evidence for gene x environment
S S Lee1, A Chronis-Tuscano, K Keenan
1Department of Psychology, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1563, USA. stevelee@psych.ucla.edu
Abstract:
Although maternal parenting is central to child development, little is known about the interplay between molecular genetic and environmental factors that influence parenting. We tested the association of the 40-bp variable number tandem repeat polymorphism of the dopamine transporter (DAT1; SLC6A3) gene with three dimensions of observed maternal parenting behavior (positive parenting, negative parenting and total maternal commands). A significant nonadditive association was found between maternal DAT1 genotype and both negative parenting and total commands during a structured mother-child interaction task, even after controlling demographic factors, maternal psychopathology and disruptive child behavior during the task. Furthermore, the association between maternal DAT1 genotype and negative parenting was significantly stronger among mothers whose children were highly disruptive during the mother-child interaction task, suggesting a gene-environment interaction.
Related Concept Videos
Human Genetics
The complex relationship between genetics and psychology is observable through common biological components such...
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
Behavioral Genetics and Its Designs
The primary methodologies used in behavior genetics include family studies, twin studies, and adoption studies, each providing unique...
Parenting Styles
Authoritarian Parenting
This style is strict and controlling, with little room for open dialogue. Authoritarian parents demand obedience and often enforce rules with minimal warmth. Children raised this way may lack social skills and initiative, usually comparing themselves to others unfavorably.
Authoritative Parenting
This...
Gene-Environment Interactions
Background and Environment Affect Phenotype
An example of how genetic background affects phenotype can be seen in horses. The Extension gene in horses is responsible for their coat color. A wild-type gene (EE) produces black pigment in the coat, while a mutant gene (ee) produces red pigment. A...
