Genetic factors in aggression, including the MAOA gene
Some genes may make a person more likely to behave aggressively. The MAOA gene controls a brain chemical linked to aggression when it malfunctions.
Real World
The Brunner family, studied by Brunner et al. (1993), had multiple male members with abnormally low MAOA activity who displayed impulsive violent behaviour — this single Dutch pedigree became the founding evidence for the 'warrior gene' label.
Exam Focus
Reference Brunner et al. and state that the MAOA gene is X-linked, explaining the male prevalence; this detail earns evaluation marks on determinism.
Evaluation Scaffold
A four-step framework for high-quality evaluation. Use this for 'assess', 'evaluate', and 'to what extent' questions.
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