ABSTRACT
This chapter explores that although DNA is indeed the molecule of life and worthy of the reverence accorded it, like any other molecule it is subject to modifications which lead to different gene expression, and thus to different phenotypes. While it is fascinating and necessary to explore molecular mechanisms, the sociocultural context in which they exist and play out cannot be ignored. The US Office of Drug Control Policy's Arrestee Drug Abuse Monitoring (ADAM) Program tests urine samples from arrestees for the presence of drugs other than alcohol. Psychosocial stress is also strongly related to both the onset of alcohol/drug dependence and to relapse. Childhood stressors such as harsh and inconsistent parenting, rejection, physical, sexual, and emotional abuse have all been associated with increased vulnerability to addiction and relapse. Alcohol and drug abuse are common in their society and around the world, and both are highly related to criminal behavior.
