DAT1 and 5HTT are associated with pathological criminal behavior in a nationally representative sample of youth

Abstract

The study of serious, violent, and chronic offenders is a primary research area in criminology; however, its genetic underpinnings are relatively unknown. Based on genetically sensitive data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (Add Health), this study empirically explored the genetic antecedents of chronic and dangerous criminal behavior. Controlling for age, gender, cognitive ability, and self-control, the models yielded some significant effects for the genetic polymorphisms dopamine transporter (DAT1) and serotonin transporter (5HTT), and these effects were conditioned by the delinquent peer network within which adolescents were situated-thereby suggesting a significant Gene × Environment interaction. © 2009 International Association for Correctional and Forensic Psychology.