Dictionary

family health portrait: A written document containing your family tree and any diseases your family members have had; used to determine risk for genetically-passed ailments.

gene-environment correlation: The extent to which a person experiences environments that correspond to their genetic predispositions.

genealogy: The study of family histories, which can include biological and genetic information.

genetic markers: Sequences of DNA used to study inherited disease and their genetic causes.

genetic predisposition: A genetic effect that may manipulate behavior but can also be changed given different environmental conditions.

genotype: The genetic make-up of a person.

heredity: The passage of genetic characteristics from parent to child.

heritability: The degree to which genetics contribute to an individual’s behavior.

human genome project: A scientific project with the goal of mapping human genes in order to better understand the body and interaction between cells.

intervention: A change in behavior in an attempt to avoid diseases which are thought to be caused by both genetic variants and environment.