In conclusion, we find evidence that GABRA2 is associated with different developmental patterns of externalizing behavior from adolescence to young adulthood. Importantly, we also find evidence that the effect of this gene on externalizing behavior can vary as a function of parental monitoring. Identifying how specific environmental variables moderate risk associated with identified genes will be necessary to advance our ability to design more effective prevention and intervention programs for individuals at risk. These analyses underscore the importance of studying genetic effects across development and of identifying environmental factors that moderate risk.
