The Gene Illusion

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The Gene Illusion ^[1] is a book by clinical psychologist Jay Joseph^[2], published in 2003, which challenges the evidence underlying genetic theories in psychiatry and psychology. Focusing primarily on twin and adoption studies, he attempts to debunk the methodologies used to establish genetic contributions to schizophrenia, criminal behaviour, and IQ. Joseph's criticisms of genetic research in psychiatry have found their place within the "anti-psychiatry" movement.

Joseph published his second book, The Missing Gene: Psychiatry, Heredity, and the Fruitless Search for Genes in 2006. In addition to other topics, he examines the claim that autism, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and bipolar disorder have a genetic basis. Like schizophrenia, he concludes that the evidence in support of genetics in these areas is weak.

Josephs conclusions have been widely criticized by the scientific community.

[edit] See also

• Biopsychiatry controversy
• Biological psychiatry
• Inheritance of intelligence
• Genetic and environmental influences in schizophrenia

[edit] References

1. ^ The Gene Illusion: Genetic research in psychiatry and psychology under the microscope, Joseph, J (2003). PCCS Books. ISBN 1-898059-47-0
2. ^ An interview with Jay Joseph

[edit] External links

• Jay Joseph's Web site
• A review of the Gene Illusion: The Fallacy of the 50% Concordance Rate for Schizophrenia in Identical Twins.by Leo, J (2003). Human Nature Review 3: 406-415.