Maternal overprotective parenting and revenge: the moderation of COMT Val158Met polymorphism

In previous research, the relationship between the parental dimension of maternal overprotection and individual revenge motivation has garnered widespread attention. This study delved into the moderating role of the COMT Val158Met gene in the connection between maternal overprotection and individual revenge motivation, providing a nuanced analysis of the association between maternal overprotection and revenge motivation. The study employed multiple regression analysis to test the moderation effect. Results revealed a significant positive correlation between maternal overprotection and revenge motivation in individuals with the Val/Val genotype, highlighting the relationship between genotype and environmental sensitivity. Specifically, individuals with the Val/Val genotype were more prone to exhibit strong revenge motivation in the parenting environment characterized by maternal overprotection. The moderating effect of the COMT gene does not vary significantly by gender or age, suggesting the relative stability of genetic influences on psychological health across the lifespan. The practical implications of the study provided a theoretical foundation for developing personalized psychological health interventions and support strategies, particularly in contexts focusing on individuals with the Val/Val genotype. This research enhanced our understanding of gene-environment interactions and provided a fresh perspective on interventions and prevention in psychological health, emphasizing the importance of balancing protection and fostering independence in parenting.