Underlying Mechanisms of Gene–Environment Interactions in Externalizing Behavior: A Systematic Review and Search for Theoretical Mechanisms

Abstract

Over the last decade, several candidate genes (i.e., MAOA, DRD4, DRD2, DAT1, 5-HTTLPR, and COMT) have been extensively studied as potential moderators of the detrimental effects of postnatal family adversity on child externalizing behaviors, such as aggression and conduct disorder. Many studies on such candidate gene by environment interactions (i.e., cG × E) have been published, and the first part of this paper offers a systematic review and integration of their findings (n = 53). The overview shows a set of heterogeneous findings. However, because of large differences between studies in terms of sample composition, conceptualizations, and power, it is difficult to determine if different findings indeed illustrate inconsistent cG × E findings or if findings are simply incomparable. In the second part of the paper, therefore, we argue that one way to help resolve this problem is the development of theory-driven a priori hypotheses on which biopsychosocial mechanisms might underlie cG × E. Such a theoretically based approach can help us specify our research strategies, create more comparable findings, and help us interpret different findings between studies. In accordance, we describe three possible explanatory mechanisms, based on extant literature on the concepts of (1) emotional reactivity, (2) reward sensitivity, and (3) punishment sensitivity. For each mechanism, we discuss the link between the putative mechanism and externalizing behaviors, the genetic polymorphism, and family adversity. Possible research strategies to test these mechanisms, and implications for interventions, are discussed.

Prenatal programming of postnatal plasticity for externalizing behavior: Testing an integrated developmental model of genetic and temperamental sensitivity to the environment

“…Because most environmental studies have narrowly focused on one biological level or developmental period, the causal mechanisms underlying EB development remain elusive. Studies integrating these multiple levels of analysis are timely and needed to understand not only who is most sensitive to the environment, but how this environmental sensitivity is shaped across time (Boyce, 2016; Weeland et al, 2015). If replicated, our exploratory findings have clinically meaningful implications for the timing and targets of intervention and prevention programs for EB.…”

“…This limitation has prevented understanding of how these different plasticity factors, together, contribute to the patterns of environmental sensitivity over time (Boyce, 2016; Weeland, Overbeek, Castro, & Matthys, 2015). Given consistent findings across genotype and temperament, these constructs may reflect a single underlying plasticity factor that affects how individuals perceive, experience, approach, and react to the environment.…”

Sometimes It's Good to be Short: The Serotonin Transporter Gene, Positive Parenting, and Adolescent Depression

“…() and Weeland et al. () raised the possibility that the L allele may too be associated with psychopathology in certain environmental contexts.…”

Opvoeding en ontvankelijkheid

“…variant van het DAT1 gen een verhoogd risico gaf voor probleemgedrag (Weeland, Overbeek, Orobio de Castro, & Matthys, 2014). Weinig is dus wat het op het eerste gezicht lijkt.…”