Etiology

/ˌiː.tiˈɒl.ə.dʒi/ noun

Definition

The study of the causes and origins of a disease or disorder, including biological, psychological, and social factors.

Etymology

From Greek 'aitiologia' meaning 'giving a reason,' from 'aitia' (cause, reason) + 'logos' (study).

Kelly Says

Etiology is detective work — figuring out WHERE a disorder comes from, which could be genes, experiences, brain chemistry, or all three together.

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