Genetic link to antisocial behaviour
Antisocial behaviour in children who show a lack of remorse and empathy is largely inherited, say researchers. In a large study involving nearly 4,000 pairs of seven-year-old twins, a team from the Development Psychiatry Centre at the Institute of Psychiatry showed that there was a strong genetic influence for psychopathic tendencies and antisocial behaviour in children. The research has implications for programmes aiming to prevent antisocial behaviour that continues into adulthood.
Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry 2005; 46: 592-597
Advances 2005/06