Socio-Genetics – Advances in Genetics Vol. 68

Author by Marla Sokolowski

Socio-Genetics – Advances in Genetics Vol. 68  is a budding field of study that explores how individual variation in behavioral traits is determined by both genetic and environmental influences. This book gives an overview of how genes interact with surroundings to influence complex behavioral traits, drawing from the latest research in behavioral genetics, evolutionary biology, and environmental science.

Like all complex characteristics, human and animal behaviors are shaped by the actions of more than one gene, making the identification of specific genetic influences a scientific challenge. To trace these connections, sociogenetic studies depend upon family and population comparisons, contrasting individuals who express certain characteristics with those who do not. Such studies frequently produce heritability estimates—statistical calculations that reflect the proportion of variation in a behavior within a given population that can be attributed to its genetic underpinnings.

Socio-Genetics – Advances in Genetics Vol. 68 shows, however, heritability is not fixed but is a function of the population and environmental circumstances measured. The influence of genes on behavior can also change dramatically when environment or context is changed, highlighting again the dynamic interaction between nature and nurture.

Socio-Genetics – Advances in Genetics Vol. 68 explores the genetics of complex traits in various model organisms, including honeybees, mice, and nematodes, providing significant insight into how environmental stresses influence genetic expression and evolution. On the basis of these models, the book integrates basic research with applied relevance toward elucidating the genetic etiology of obesity, schizophrenia, multiple sclerosis, and autism.

Socio-Genetics – Advances in Genetics Vol. 68 provides the geneticist, behavioral scientist, and student with a broad-based introduction to how genes and environment interact in the development of behavior and evolution. It bridges molecular genetics and psychology, providing a readable overview of one of the most exciting frontiers of modern science.