Genotypes, Phenotypes, Heritability And The Gene Environment Interaction

[Double93]

I'm writing an essay on the interaction between genes and environment in mental illness. I've to explain what is meant by the terms genotype, phenotype and heritability, the relationship between these concepts and their relevance to mental health. Then, using examples, discuss how gene-environment interactions influence the development and/or treatment of mental illness.

I understand what i am to do, but im struggling to get my head around the whole genotype, phenotype, environment and heritability part- more about linking them together and explaining them. Am i right in thinking/understanding that your genetic make up that you inherit is your genotype and this along with environmental factors (perhaps the way you were treated as a child; abuse etc or stress levels) is the basis for developing your phenotype (how an individual looks/behaves or has a mental disorder). Therefore, although two people (twins) may have the same genetic build up, environmental factors (possibly the way they were brought up) will play a role in whether they may develop a mental disorder? Am I understanding it all correctly? Thanks in advance!

[Buenchico]

Any use?
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1414673/
or
http://www.apa.org/science/about/psa/2009/04/sci-brief.aspx

This might be the easiest to get to grips with though:
http://www.minddisorders.com/Flu-Inv/Genetic-factors-and-mental-disorders.html

[bigbanana]

Buy or borrow a copy of "Genetics For Dummies". It explains all you need.