A number of studies support the assumption that there are genetic factors which favor the occurrence of depression. These can, for example, cause the affected person to react more sensitively to stressful situations than other people.
However, an exact account of these genetic factors has not yet been given by scientific research. A specific “depression gene” has not been found. It seems more likely that a combination of various genetic characteristics can more or less favor the susceptibility to depression.
If cases of depression occur within one’s own family then the likelihood that one will also suffer from depression is around 20% according to the relevant scientific studies. For monozygotic twins the likelihood is even greater. If one of the twins suffers from depression there is a 40% probability that the other will also be affected by depression in the course of his/her life.
In contrast to this genetic disposition scientists sometimes speak of learned dispositions. This kind of disposition can be triggered off, for example, by traumatic experiences during childhood.
