ABSTRACT
This chapter considers the genetic contribution in more detail. It provides a basic introduction to concepts and an overview of research methods in the fields of most relevance to forensic psychiatry. The chapter presents a summary of quantitative genetic and molecular genetic findings in these areas. Adoption and twin studies yield information about the relative contributions of genes and environment to antisocial behaviour, problem substance use and schizophrenia, but molecular genetic studies are needed to elucidate their genetic architecture. The importance of gene–environment interplay on complex traits has gained increasing recognition. Adoption and twin studies yield information about the relative contributions of genes and environment to antisocial behaviour, problem substance use and schizophrenia, but molecular genetic studies are needed to elucidate their genetic architecture. The serotonergic system has been implicated in a variety of traits, including impulsivity, addictive behaviour, suicide, mood regulation, sexual activity, appetite and eating disorder as well as cognition, sensory processing and motor activity.
