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Behavioral Science-Lecture-2
Behavioral Science-Lecture-2
OF BEHAVIOR
NATIA BADRIDZE,MD
THE GENETICS OF BEHAVIOR-Studies for
examining the genetics of behavior
1. Family risk studies compare how frequently a behavioral disorder
or trait occurs in the relatives of the affected individual (proband)
with how frequently it occurs in the general population.
2. Twin studies
a. Adoption studies using monozygotic twins or dizygotic twins reared
in the same or in different homes are used to differentiate the effects
of genetic factors from environmental factors in the occurrence of
psychiatric, substance abuse (e.g., alcoholism), and neuropsychiatric
disorders.
b. If there is a genetic component to the etiology, a disorder may be
expected to have a higher concordance rate in monozygotic twins
than in dizygotic twins (i.e., if concordant, the disorder occurs in both
twins).
THE GENETICS OF BEHAVIOR-Studies for
examining the genetics of behavior
It has been difficult to link particular chromosomes with psychiatric
illnesses. However, in a number of studies over years, such
associations have been made.
Because fractures (e.g., of the hip) are more likely than chronic
illness to cause loss of mobility leading to disability and death in
the elderly, preventing falls and prevention and management of
osteoporosis are important foci in management.
Somatic and neurologic changes during aging
• Strength and physical health gradually decline.
• This decline shows great variability but commonly
includes not only osteoporosis but also:
• impaired vision,
• hearing,
• immune responses;
• decreased muscle mass and strength;
• decreased renal, pulmonary, and gastrointestinal
function;
• reduced bladder control;
• decreased responsiveness to changes in ambient
temperature.
Changes in the brain occur with aging.
a. These changes include decreased brain weight, enlarged ventricles and
decreased cerebral blood flow.