Irving Gottesman

Irving Gottesman

Irving Gottesman (1930–2016) was an American psychologist renowned for his pioneering work in the field of behavioral genetics and schizophrenia research. He is best known for his studies on the genetic basis of mental disorders, particularly schizophrenia, and his contributions to the understanding of the interplay between genetics and environment in the development of these conditions.

Early Life and Education

Irving Gottesman was born on December 29, 1930, in Cleveland, Ohio. He earned his undergraduate degree from The Ohio State University and later completed his Ph.D. in psychology at the University of Minnesota in 1960.

Career and Research

Gottesman's career was marked by his innovative research on the genetic aspects of mental disorders. He held academic positions at several prestigious institutions, including the University of Virginia, the University of Minnesota, and the University of London.

Schizophrenia Research

Gottesman is perhaps best known for his work on schizophrenia. He conducted extensive twin studies to investigate the heritability of schizophrenia, demonstrating that genetics play a significant role in the development of the disorder. His research provided crucial evidence that schizophrenia is not solely caused by environmental factors but is also influenced by genetic predispositions.

Behavioral Genetics

In addition to his work on schizophrenia, Gottesman made significant contributions to the field of behavioral genetics. He explored the genetic underpinnings of various psychological traits and disorders, helping to establish the field as a legitimate area of scientific inquiry. His work emphasized the importance of considering both genetic and environmental factors in understanding human behavior.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Gottesman received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to psychology and behavioral genetics. These include the G. Stanley Hall Award from the American Psychological Association and the Dobzhansky Award from the Behavior Genetics Association.

Legacy

Irving Gottesman's work has had a lasting impact on the field of psychology and the study of mental disorders. His research has paved the way for further studies on the genetic basis of mental health conditions and has influenced the development of more effective treatments and interventions.

Personal Life

Gottesman was married and had children. He passed away on June 29, 2016, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking research and contributions to the field of psychology.

See Also

• Behavioral genetics
• Schizophrenia
• Twin studies
• Genetic predisposition
• Mental disorders