The diathesis-stress model is a psychological theory that attempts to explain behavior as a predispositional vulnerability together with stress from life experiences.

Furthermore, it does not necessarily lead to mental disorder or creative achievement-this is, like many other factors of life, a case of environmental and predispositional influences, whether these be positive (e.g., education) or negative (e.g., abuse) in nature.

But in an interview, Mr. Arbor told us that there was no history of dipsomania in his family, nor does his blood or genetic predispositional chemistry indicate that he is or ever has been prone to alcohol-induced changes of personality.