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Epigenetic approaches to developmental psychopathology
H H Goldsmith1, I I Gottesman, K S Lemery
1Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Madison 53706, USA. hhgoldsm@facstaff.wisc.edu
Development and Psychopathology
|April 1, 1997
Summary
This study explores how epigenetic concepts can improve developmental psychopathology research. Integrating diverse data types in behavior genetic studies offers a more comprehensive understanding of genetic and environmental influences on behavior.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Genetics
- Developmental Psychopathology
- Epigenetics
Background:
- Developmental psychopathology research benefits from integrating behavior genetic principles.
- Epigenetic concepts offer novel frameworks for understanding gene-environment interplay.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the utility of 11 key epigenetic concepts for advancing developmental psychopathology.
- To demonstrate how behavior genetic research can incorporate epigenetic insights.
Main Methods:
- Review of 11 key epigenetic concepts within the behavior genetic research paradigm.
- Emphasis on integrating dimensional and categorical variables, environmental measures, and direct behavioral assessments.
- Application to classic twin and family studies, incorporating multiple occasions of study.
Main Results:
- Epigenetic concepts enhance the understanding of genetic and environmental influences on behavior.
- Integration of diverse data types (dimensional, categorical, environmental, behavioral) improves classic behavior genetic designs.
- Contemporary techniques can identify chromosomal regions linked to behavioral patterns.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic concepts are valuable for advancing developmental psychopathology research.
- A comprehensive approach incorporating genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors is crucial.
- Understanding non-Mendelian genetic influences is important for behavioral genetics.