Author Description
Alcoholism is known to run in families, but it is not clear whether environmental factors or genetic factors bring this about. Goodwin presents a comprehensive survey of the evidence on both sides, focusing on an adoption study that showed remarkably strong evidence for genetic determination. The book also describes the physiological effects of alcohol and provides a detailed clinical picture of alcoholism, drawing on scientific and literary studies.
Menrva's Summary
THE THESIS
This book investigates the extent to which alcoholism is determined by genetic inheritance versus environmental influence. Donald W. Goodwin, a psychiatrist and researcher, utilizes clinical data and longitudinal adoption studies to evaluate the biological underpinnings of alcohol dependence. He presents a framework that distinguishes between nature and nurture, ultimately arguing for a significant genetic component in the development of the disorder.
THE SCOPE MAP
What You Will Find
- Longitudinal adoption studies comparing biological and adoptive families
- Analysis of physiological effects of ethanol on the human body
- Clinical diagnostic criteria for alcoholism
- Synthesis of scientific research and historical literary observations
THE AUTHORITY PERSPECTIVE
Experts recognize this work as a foundational text in the study of the genetics of addiction. Readers frequently note the clarity of the clinical descriptions and the historical significance of the research presented.
Page Count:
182
Publication Date:
1978-10-19
Publisher:
Oxford University Press
ISBN-10:
019502432X
ISBN-13:
9780195024326
Science
Psychology
Genetics
Medicine
Heredity
Addiction
Alcoholism
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