Mono-Amine Oxidase-A (MAOA) Gene

GLOSSARY

Also known as the “warrior gene”, this gene specifically produces the enzyme MAOA, which decomposes monoamine neurotransmitters (dopamine, serotonin, noradrenaline). Individuals with low levels of MAOA are more likely to react aggressively in a highly provocative situation.

Reference:
GaPayne, B. K., Hall, D. L., Cameron, C. D., & Bishara, A. J. (2010). A process model of affect misattribution. Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, 36(10): 1397-1408. doi: 10.1177/0146167210383440

Schwarz, N. (1990). Feelings as information: Informative and motivational functions of affective states. In Sorrentino, R.M. & Higgins, E.T. (Eds.), Handbook of motivation and cognition: Foundations of social behavior (Vol. 2, pp. 527–561). New York: Guilford Press.