Genetics of Risk-Taking Behavior: Current Knowledge, Challenges and Future Directions

Abstract

Our daily decisions reflect continuous assessments of risk that highly varies from one individual to the other. Research on the underlying mechanisms of individual differences in risk-taking behavior emphasizes changes in neural and physiological pathways that is in part due to the activation of different neurotransmitter systems. Consequently, genetic variations in these systems were the primary target of studies investigating the genetic underpinnings of risk-taking behavior. The aim of this review is to give an overview of our current knowledge related to genetic variations in these systems and economic risk-taking behavior. We first examine candidate gene association studies, followed by genome-wide association and gene-environment interaction studies utilizing different measures of risk-taking to illustrate the progress in the field. Research to date suggests alterations in risk-taking behavior mostly by the genes of serotonergic and dopaminergic systems in addition to influences by psychological trait measures and psychosocial factors. Considering the characteristics and results of these studies, we discuss the limitations and challenges in this area. Finally, we provide suggestions for future genoeconomics research illustrating potential benefits of interdisciplinary studies in behavioral economics.

The role of the genetic influence of DRD4 in Chinese adults in the context of the choice of tourist attractions

“…The dopamine receptor gene DRD4 is involved in genetically differentiated human susceptibility from environmental conditions, and its polymorphism is naturally associated with personality traits (Abrahams et al, 2019). Genetic variation in decision‐making systems has often been the main focus of research examining the genetic basis of human behaviour (Ateşyakar & Duman, 2021; Yessentayeva et al, 2021). Many authors point to the stability of associations of the DRD4 gene polymorphism with behavioural characteristics and emotional reactions of people, but for the first time, such an influence on the models of the choice of tourist attractions by the subjects is considered (Gilman et al, 2022).…”

“…The authors note the limitations of the economic risk assessment model in the section on loss aversion. The economic model of risk assessment was used in the review by Ateşyakar and Duman (2021) with similar limitations.…”