Gene x Environment interactions in speech sound disorder predict language and preliteracy outcomes

Dev Psychopathol. 2007 Fall;19(4):1047-72. doi: 10.1017/S0954579407000533.

Abstract

Few studies have investigated the role of gene x environment interactions (G x E) in speech, language, and literacy disorders. Currently, there are two theoretical models, the diathesis-stress model and the bioecological model, that make opposite predictions about the expected direction of G x E, because environmental risk factors may either strengthen or weaken the effect of genes on phenotypes. The purpose of the current study was to test for G x E at two speech sound disorder and reading disability linkage peaks using a sib-pair linkage design and continuous measures of socioeconomic status, home language/literacy environment, and number of ear infections. The interactions were tested using composite speech, language, and preliteracy phenotypes and previously identified linkage peaks on 6p22 and 15q21. Results showed five G x E at both the 6p22 and 15q21 locations across several phenotypes and environmental measures. Four of the five interactions were consistent with the bioecological model of G x E. Each of these four interactions involved environmental measures of the home language/literacy environment. The only interaction that was consistent with the diathesis-stress model was one involving the number of ear infections as the environmental risk variable. The direction of these interactions and possible interpretations are explored in the discussion.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Articulation Disorders / genetics*
  • Articulation Disorders / psychology
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Chromosome Mapping
  • Chromosomes, Human, Pair 6
  • Chromosomes, Human, Pair 9
  • Dyslexia / genetics
  • Dyslexia / psychology
  • Educational Status*
  • Female
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease / genetics*
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease / psychology
  • Genotype*
  • Humans
  • Language Development Disorders / genetics*
  • Language Development Disorders / psychology*
  • Male
  • Models, Genetic
  • Phenotype
  • Phonetics*
  • Siblings
  • Social Environment*
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • Speech Intelligibility