Skip to content

Environment does not cause ADD any more than genes cause…

“Environment does not cause ADD any more than genes cause ADD. What happens is that if certain genetic material meets a certain environment, ADD may result. Without that genetic material, no ADD. Without that environment, no ADD. The formative environment is the family of origin.” quote by Gabor Maté
Download Open image
““Environment does not cause ADD any more than genes cause ADD. What happens is that if certain genetic material meets a certain environment, ADD may result. Without that genetic material, no ADD. Without that environment, no ADD. The formative environment is the family of origin.””

Gabor Maté

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

ADD results from a specific gene‑environment interaction, not solely genetics or upbringing.

In simple terms: Genes and environment together cause ADD.

Key Takeaway

Consider both biology and context in understanding behavior.

Themes

health genetics environment

Mood

analytical concerned

Type

clinical educational

When to use this quote

  • parenting
  • education
  • clinical assessment
  • policy making

Key Concepts

gene‑environment interaction developmental psychology neurodiversity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we address both factors in treatment?
  • What role does family play in neurodevelopment?
A Different Perspective

Genetic predisposition may be overlooked if focusing only on environment.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Gabor Maté

Explore all 244 Gabor Maté quotes

More Evolution quotes

Browse all 6,185 Evolution quotes