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Published on: February 22, 2018
Gene-environment interplay between peer rejection and depressive behavior in children
Mara Brendgen1, Frank Vitaro, Michel Boivin
1Department of Psychology, University of Quebec at Montreal, Québec, Canada. Brendgen.Mara@uqam.ca
Summary
Children with a genetic predisposition for depressive behavior face higher peer rejection. Genes influencing depressive behavior have a smaller impact on children experiencing peer rejection.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Behavioral Genetics
- Child Psychiatry
Background:
- Gene-environment correlation (rGE) suggests genetic risk influences environmental exposures.
- Gene-environment interaction (GxE) posits environmental factors moderate genetic effects.
- Peer rejection is a significant childhood environmental stressor.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate gene-environment correlation (rGE) between genetic risk for depressive behavior and peer rejection in children.
- To examine gene-environment interaction (GxE) where peer rejection moderates genetic influences on depressive behavior.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a twin study design with 336 twin pairs (196 MZ, 140 DZ) assessed in kindergarten.
- Measured peer acceptance/rejection using peer nominations.
- Assessed children's depressive behavior via teacher ratings.
Main Results:
- Found a moderate overlap in genetic effects between peer rejection and depressive behavior, supporting rGE.
- Observed that genetic effects on depressive behavior differed across levels of peer acceptance/rejection, consistent with GxE.
Conclusions:
- Children with higher genetic risk for depressive behavior are more likely to experience peer rejection (rGE).
- Genetic factors play a less significant role in explaining depressive behavior in children who are rejected by peers (GxE).
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