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The University of Georgia has published a study in the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology explaining that supportive parenting can actually counteract the effects of a genetic risk factor that increases the likelihood of substance use among youth. This long-term study examined how nature and nurture can influence the behaviour of youth with a genetic predisposition for substance abuse. “We found that involved and supportive parenting can completely override the effects of a genetic risk for substance abuse,” claims Professor Gene Brody.

The research focused on the 5HTT gene that transports serotonin in the brain. According to many studies, most people possess two copies of a long version of this gene, but the select few that possess one or two copies of a short version tend to be more likely to consume alcohol or other substances and partake in impulsive and risky behaviour.

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Professor and paediatrician, Dimitri Christakis of the Seattle Children’s Research Institute and the University of Washington, has published a summary of research findings in Acta Paediatrica that support the claim that television viewing for infants under the age of two actually does more harm than good.

Professor Christakis maintains that infant TV viewing is associated with delayed language, with shortened attention spans and with delayed cognitive development. This may be, in part, due to the overstimulation of the brain from TV programs flashing lights, quick screen changes, auditory cuts etc. Christakis reviewed 78 studies from the past 25 years and could not find one that actually provides supporting data that television can help the developing brain.

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