Mar 12 2009
Genes Are Not a Choice
A number of years ago I was scanning the books on the psychology shelves of a used-book store. I pulled a glossy hardcover from the line-up and snorted a nonverbal “what a joke!” The title was something along the lines of “Neurosis is a Choice.” On the back was the handsome photo of the author, a motivational speaker who apparently knew anxiety disorders are a choice because he had wisely decided not to have one.
From a recent study into possible genetic factors underlying anxiety disorders, I have deduced that the author was likely blessed with a longer version of the “serotonin transporter gene” studied. In the experiment, individuals with the shorter version more quickly acquired fear responses and less quickly experienced the extinction of their response. Good solid research.
That finding is science, which psychology aspires to be. Too often, self-help books are one part science and 66 parts wishful thinking.
