Genetic Varian Influences Degree Of Prosocial Behavior

Variants in a transporter gene for neurotransmitter serotonin affect anxiety and willingness to help others in socially risky settings. People's willingness to help others may be influenced by a gene that affects their level of social anxiety, according to a new study led by a University of Nebraska-Lincoln scientist. The study appears to be the first to describe this particular pathway. Research participants who carry the dominant version of the gene were more likely to indicate anxiety about social interactions or being trapped in situations or places. The anxiety appears to inhibit their "prosocial" behavior and increase their reluctance to come to the aid of strangers. Scott Stoltenberg, a UNL behavior geneticist and the study's lead author, said the gene...
Source: FuturePundit - Category: Health Medicine and Bioethics Commentators Authors: Source Type: blogs