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Article 1: An Introduction to Evolutionary Developmental Psychology

Abstract: Evolutionary developmental psychology represents a synthesis of modern evolutionary theory and developmental psychology. Here we introduce the special issue on evolutionary developmental psychology by briefly discussing the history of this field and then summarizing the variety of topics that are covered. In this special issue, leading researchers provide a collection of theoretical and empirical articles that highlight recent findings and propose promising areas for future research.

Questions to Consider:

1. Why have there historically been tensions between evolutionary theory and developmental psychology?
2. How does the developmental systems approach resolve this tension?
3. How does the field of developmental psychology inform our understanding of psychopathology?
    

Article 2: Identification of Genes Influencing a Spectrum of Externalizing Psychopathology

Abstract: Alcohol dependence, drug dependence, childhood conduct disorder, and adult antisocial behavior commonly occur in combination. Data from multiple literatures, including twin/family studies and electrophysiological studies, suggest that the overlap of these disorders is largely due to a shared genetic liability that contributes to a spectrum of externalizing psychopathology. These findings suggest that some genes will not be specific to any one externalizing disorder but will predispose individuals broadly to a spectrum of externalizing psychopathology. Here we review evidence for specific, identified genes, GABRA2 and CHRM2, that follow this pattern and confer risk for a spectrum of externalizing disorders. These findings confirm the etiological structure of psychopathology suggested by psychological research and suggest exciting new roles that psychologists can play in understanding the pathways underlying associations between genes and behavior.

Questions to Consider:

1. How have  twin/family studies and electrophysiological studies helped us understand the genetic contribution to externalizing disorders?
2. What role do GABRA2 and CHRM2 play in the development of externalizing disorders?
3. What new roles can psychologists can play in understanding the pathways underlying associations between genes and behavior?