Are there genetic influences on addiction?
Are there genetic influences on addiction?
While the environment a person grows up in, along with a person’s behavior, influences whether he or she becomes addicted to drugs, genetics plays a key role as well. Scientists estimate that genetic factors account for 40 to 60 percent of a person’s vulnerability to addiction.
How does addiction affect the entire family?
One of the most serious ways addiction affects the entire family is the higher risk of abuse. There is a higher likelihood that family members may experience violence at the hands of an addict. Whether it’s emotional, physical, or sexual abuse, the risk increases.
Which is an important risk factor for drug abuse?
| Risk Factors | Domain | Protective Factors |
|---|---|---|
| Early Aggressive Behavior | Individual | Self-Control |
| Lack of Parental Supervision | Family | Parental Monitoring |
| Substance Abuse | Peer | Academic Competence |
| Drug Availability | School | Anti-drug Use Policies |
How do genetics play a role in addiction?
Genes influence the numbers and types of receptors in peoples’ brains, how quickly their bodies metabolize drugs, and how well they respond to different medications. Learning more about the genetic, epigenetic, and neurobiological bases of addiction will eventually advance the science of addiction.
What is the addiction gene called?
The A1 form (allele) of the dopamine receptor gene DRD2 is more common in people addicted to alcohol, cocaine, and opioids. The variation likely affects how drugs influence the reward pathway. Mice with certain variations in the Per1 and Per2 genes drink much more alcohol than normal—especially under stress.
How does drug addiction affect a person family and society?
Early exposure to a home divided by drug use can cause a child to feel emotionally and physically neglected and unsafe. As a result, they can become more mentally and emotionally unstable. Children may develop extreme guilt and self-blame for a parent’s substance abuse.
Who is most at risk for addiction?
People who have experienced physical, emotional or sexual abuse or trauma are more likely to develop a substance use disorder. Others who have friends who use, or those subjected to peer pressure, may also be at a greater risk.