‘Warrior Gene’ Gone Violent
---Study finds boys may feel a genetic pull towards joining a gang.Posted by Jessica at MSN Health on Wednesday, June 17, 2009 11:51 AMWhen I think about what might entice a child to join a gang, logic points me to geographic and sociological aspects of what a child feels a gang can give them: power, money, a substitute family and respect. But a genetic root?
Researchers from Florida State University have found just that.Their research shows that boys who have a variant of the gene monoamine oxidase A (MAOA), commonly referred to as the “warrior gene,” are not only more likely to join a gang but are most likely some of the most violent members.
"While gangs typically have been regarded as a sociological phenomenon, our investigation shows that variants of a specific MAOA gene, known as a 'low-activity 3-repeat allele,' play a significant role," said the study’s lead author, Kevin M. Beaver, Ph.D., an award-winning researcher and professor, in a press release.
"Previous research has linked low-activity MAOA variants to a wide range of antisocial, even violent, behavior, but our study confirms that these variants can predict gang membership," he said.
"Moreover, we found that variants of this gene could distinguish gang members who were markedly more likely to behave violently and use weapons from members who were less likely to do either."
I’m not sure how this study can be used to prevent the rise of gang participants, but it brings up an interesting debate on nurture versus nature. Regardless of socioeconomical circumstances, can young boys prevent their violent tendencies?
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