Genetics and Cognitive-Behavioural Theory Explaining Anxiety

Although occasional anxiety is considered a normal and adaptive emotion, when excessive or persistent, it can lead to significant functional impairment and the development of severe anxiety-related psychopathology. While acknowledging the multifaceted aetiological nature of the anxiety disorders spectrum, this article discusses one biological and one psychological-based approach, delving into the significant roles of genetic predisposition and cognitive-behavioural theoretical framework in understanding anxiety disorders. Genetic factors contribute substantially to their onset, with heritability explaining up to 40% of the variance. Various genetic markers and mutations have been identified, illuminating the intricate interplay between genes and neurobiological pathways. Additionally, cognitive-behavioural theory elucidates how maladaptive cognitive processes perpetuate anxiety. Distorted cognitive schemas and dysfunctional core beliefs characterise the cognitive landscape of anxiety disorders, influencing emotional responses and behaviour patterns. While both genetic predisposition and cognitive-behavioural processes offer valuable insights into anxiety disorders, methodological limitations in existing research, particularly regarding inconsistencies due to self-reported data and measurement tools issues, require reconsideration. Understanding in-depth the interaction between genetic predisposition and cognitive-behavioural processes is crucial for developing comprehensive treatment approaches; still, this remains an area of ongoing research. Future studies should focus on gene-environment interactions and neurobiological mechanisms underlying anxiety disorders, implementing advanced genomic and neuroimaging techniques; additionally, twin studies of molecular genetics could be beneficial in identifying specific genetic markers associated with anxiety-related cognitive biases and maladaptive schemas. Keywords: Anxiety disorders, aetiology, genetic predisposition, cognitive-behavioural theory