Differential susceptibility to the environment: An evolutionary–neurodevelopmental theory

• DOI: 10.1017/s0954579410000611
• Publication Date: 2011-01-24T14:47:14Z
• Authors: Bruce J. Ellis; W. Thomas Boyce; Jay Belsky; Marian J. Bakerma...; Marinus H. van Ij...
• Keywords: Diathesis–stress model; Vulnerability

Two extant evolutionary models, biological sensitivity to context theory (BSCT) and differential susceptibility (DST), converge on the hypothesis that some individuals are more susceptible than others both negative (risk-promoting) positive (development-enhancing) environmental conditions. These models contrast with currently dominant perspective personal vulnerability risk: diathesis stress/dual risk. We review challenges this based emerging data from evolutionary, developmental, health sciences. signify need for a paradigm shift in conceptualizing Person x Environment interactions development. In we advance an evolutionary--neurodevelopmental theory, DST BSCT, of role neurobiological environment regulating effects adaptation, development, health. then outline current thinking about neurogenomic endophenotypic mechanisms may underpin susceptibility, summarize empirical research evaluate bases implications BSCT DST. Finally, discuss applied issues including methodological statistical considerations conducting research; ecological, cultural, racial--ethnic variation susceptibility; designing social programs. conclude has far-reaching understanding whether how much child adult development responds, better worse, gamut species-typical