DNA & BEHAVIOR
Is Our Fate in Our Genes?

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Program Summary

Producer: Claire Schoen
Aired Beginning: November 1998

What if you had a tendency to over-indulge in alcohol from time to time? And what if you found out that you have a genetic predisposition for addictive behavior? Would this knowledge inspire you to curb your drinking? Or would you feel resigned to your "fate" and drink all the more as a result? It's a question worth pondering as scientists further study possible genetic influences on behavior.

This program describes key studies that attempt to explain specific behaviors. For example, you'll learn about twin studies conducted to determine whether there is a genetic influence on homosexuality. Some scientists hope that establishing a genetic basis for homosexuality will help foster greater acceptance of homosexuals. Opponents of the research fear that instead, there may be renewed efforts to "cure" them. You'll hear first-hand views from scientists and subjects of the study, and then you can draw your own conclusions.

You'll also find out about a less-publicized but much-studied behavior: novelty seeking. What drives some people continually to seek out new experiences - sometimes with dangerous consequences? And how do scientists define such behaviors cross-culturally? What constitutes novelty seeking in Manhattan? In Papua New Guinea?

In addition, the program examines genetic research - currently being conducted on mice - that may shed new light on addictive personalities. Tour one "mouse behavior" lab and learn about the latest findings on alcoholic traits. What does it mean to have a "predisposition" for an addictive behavior? If there is a genetic basis for alcoholism, how would this affect the way alcoholism is treated?

By exploring these three behaviors - homosexuality, novelty seeking, and addiction - we examine how the field of behavioral genetics may affect each of us individually and impact society as a whole.

Last Updated: July 2004