DOI
https://doi.org/10.25772/6NJM-HJ70
Author ORCID Identifier
ORCID # 000-002-7291-1431
Defense Date
2019
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy
Department
Clinical and Translational Sciences
First Advisor
John M. Hettema
Second Advisor
Roxann Roberson-Nay
Third Advisor
Nathan Gillespie
Fourth Advisor
Michael A. Southam-Gerow
Fifth Advisor
Elizabeth C. Prom-Wormley
Sixth Advisor
Brad Verhulst
Abstract
Psychiatric genetics is a basic science field that has potential for practical application and effective translation. To date, translational frameworks utilized by this field have been linear (e.g., sequential) in nature, focusing on molecular genetic information. It is proposed that non-linear (e.g., socio-ecological) frameworks are a better way to immediately translate non-molecular genetic information. This dissertation explored the translation of psychiatric genetic information in two ways. First, a survey was sent to academic stakeholders to assess the state of the science regarding the translation of genetic information to the clinical care of mental health disorders. Findings from this indicate a translation-genetic competence gap whereby genetic knowledge reinforces linear frameworks and genetic competence is needed to achieve effective translation in this content area. Second, a new risk factor model for social anxiety was created that incorporated genetic, environmental, and neurophysiological risk factors (behavioral inhibition, parental bonding, emotion reactivity). Findings indicate that genetic etiology is more informative knowledge that can influence risk factor models and possibly prevention and intervention efforts for social anxiety. Overall this dissertation paves the way for examining the translational capacity of psychiatric genetics in a clinical setting. It constitutes the first examination of barriers to and a potential solution for the most effective translation of psychiatric genetic information.
Rights
© Jessica L. Bourdon
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
4-1-2019
Included in
Mental Disorders Commons, Other Genetics and Genomics Commons, Psychiatric and Mental Health Commons, Translational Medical Research Commons