The project satisfies the requirements of the Ethics in Human Experimentation committee of the Australian National University. Almost everyone is stressed out at some point in their lives. I encourage you to participate in the project as your contribution could make a real difference to the quality of life of Canberra's and Australia's youth. Some people are worried by the idea that we take a cheek swab for genetic analysis. The following information provides answers to commonly asked questions about this research.
Genes are the instructions which direct the growth and development of all living organisms.
DNA is a long, thread-like molecule with genes lined up along it like a string of beads. We inherit our DNA and, in consequence, our genes from our parents. Every cell in the body contains all of the DNA necessary to produce everything the body needs. For example, cells on the inside of our cheeks contain the genes for producing brain chemicals but because these brain chemicals are not needed in the mouth, these genes are not switched on. The genes of interest in this study are those which may affect the level of anxiety and stress that people experience in their lives.