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The Dopamine Receptor D4 Gene (DRD4) and Self-Reported Risk Taking in the Economic Domain

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Listed:
  • Dreber, Anna

    (Stockholm School of Economics)

  • Rand, David G.

    (Harvard University)

  • Wernerfelt, Nils

    (MIT)

  • Garcia, Justin R.

    (Binghamton University)

  • Lum, J. Koji

    (Kinsey Institute for Research in Sex, Gender, and Reproduction, IN University)

  • Zeckhauser, Richard

    (Harvard University)

Abstract

Recent evidence suggests that individual variation in risk taking is partly due to genetic factors. We explore how self-reported risk taking in different domains correlates with variation in the dopamine receptor D4 gene (DRD4). Past studies conflict on the influence of DRD4 in relation to risk taking. A sample of 237 serious tournament contract bridge players, experts on risk taking in one domain, was genotyped for having a 7-repeat allele (7R+) or not (7R-) at RD4. No difference was found between 7R+ and 7R- individuals in general risk taking or in several other risk-related activities.

Suggested Citation

  • Dreber, Anna & Rand, David G. & Wernerfelt, Nils & Garcia, Justin R. & Lum, J. Koji & Zeckhauser, Richard, 2011. "The Dopamine Receptor D4 Gene (DRD4) and Self-Reported Risk Taking in the Economic Domain," Working Paper Series rwp11-042, Harvard University, John F. Kennedy School of Government.
    • Handle: RePEc:ecl:harjfk:rwp11-042
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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