The integration of genetics into developmental projects and other studies conducted by social scientists has great potential to enhance our understanding of the mediating pathways and mechanisms by which genetic susceptibility may (or may not) translate into risk behavior. However, in order to realize this potential, genetics research conducted by developmental, social scientists must reflect the current “state-of-the-science” practices from the field of genetics. Close collaborations between social scientists and geneticists are likely to be necessary to achieve this and to be of mutual benefit to both fields.
