The estimated heritability of 48 percent for neuroticism in the population supports the claim that
A) the incidence of neuroticism is associated with that of another distinct trait.
B) those with the neurotic trait share a particular dominant allele.
C) the population in general has a recessive gene for neuroticism.
D) the variability in neuroticism is due partly to genetic variability in the population.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The heritability estimate of 48 percent for neuroticism suggests that genetic variability plays a significant role in the variability of this trait in the population. This means that a large proportion of the differences in neuroticism between individuals can be attributed to genetic factors. Choice A is incorrect as the heritability estimate does not imply any association between neuroticism and another trait. Choice B is unlikely as neuroticism is a complex trait that is influenced by multiple genes and environmental factors. Choice C is also unlikely as the inheritance pattern of neuroticism is not known, and it is unlikely that the trait is controlled by a single recessive gene.

The Estimated Heritability of 48 Percent for Neuroticism in the Population