Large Cross-National Differences in Gene x Socioeconomic Status Interaction on Intelligence

A core hypothesis in developmental theory predicts that genetic influences on intelligence and academic achievement are suppressed under conditions of socioeconomic privation and more fully realized under conditions of socioeconomic advantage: a Gene x Childhood Socioeconomic Status (SES) interaction. Tests of this hypothesis have produced apparently inconsistent results. We performed a meta-analysis of tests of Gene x SES interaction on intelligence and academic-achievement test scores, allowing for stratification by nation (United States vs. non–United States), and we conducted rigorous tests for publication bias and between-studies heterogeneity. In U.S. studies, we found clear support for moderately sized Gene x SES effects. In studies from Western Europe and Australia, where social policies ensure more uniform access to high-quality education and health care, Gene x SES effects were zero or reversed.
Source: Psychological Science - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Tags: Research Articles Source Type: research