Which statement is true regarding the role of genetics in schizophrenia?

Disable ads (and more) with a premium pass for a one time $4.99 payment

Study for the Arizona State University PSY101 Introduction to Psychology Exam 4. Strengthen your skills with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The statement regarding the role of genetics in schizophrenia that is true is that a large number of different genes are implicated in its development. Schizophrenia is a complex disorder influenced by multiple genetic factors rather than being attributed to a single gene mutation. Genetic studies have shown that the risk of developing schizophrenia is significantly higher in individuals who have a family history of the disorder, indicating a hereditary component.

Moreover, research has identified numerous genetic variants that may contribute to the susceptibility of this condition, reflecting a polygenic model. This means that the disorder does not arise from the influence of a single gene but instead from the interaction of various genes, each contributing a small effect.

In contrast to this, the other statements do not accurately represent the current understanding of schizophrenia's genetic basis. The notion of schizophrenia being caused by only environmental factors overlooks the substantial genetic contributions observed in studies. Additionally, stating that it does not overlap with other mental disorders ignores the fact that many genetic factors are shared across various psychiatric conditions. This overlap suggests a more integrative view of mental health, where genetics and environment interplay in complex ways.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy