More recently, many G × E studies for conduct disorder are framed within a differential susceptibility or vantage sensitivity framework. The differential susceptibility framework posits that particular genotypes may confer risk in a negative/risky environment, but may also be associated with especially good outcomes in a positive/protective environment (Belsky et al., 2009). Relatedly, the vantage sensitivity framework posits that particular genotypes may confer heightened responsivity to positive environments (Pluess and Belsky, 2013). A recent meta-analysis of twelve studies of externalizing behavior showed that carriers of putative susceptibility loci across a number of “usual suspect” genes were more responsive to a family-based intervention compared to non-carriers (Bakermans-Kranenburg and van Ijzendoorn, 2015). Further exploration of this area is warranted, particularly by expanding beyond a classic candidate gene approach. Considering our poor record of selecting genes with effects on complex behavioral outcomes, it may be overly optimistic to think we will be better at guessing genes involved in environmental sensitivity.
