Gene Linked to Commitment-Phobia

Though genetics cannot accurately predict behavior, a study appearing in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences examines whether a hormone that causes monogamy in animals has the same affect on human males. Researchers have studied the hormone vasopressin, which affects multiple body systems, and how it influences behavior in prairie voles. Found in central North America, these rodents are particularly known for their monogamy as the males remain close to home and help raise the pups. Other species closely related to the prairie voles do not show any loyalty to their partners. Years of observation and research has concluded that the social monogamy results from vasopressin activity in the brains of the males. By manipulating the levels of this hormone in the brain, the voles can be made more or less loyal to their partners. Of course, nerve cells are required to have specific receptor molecules that allow vasopressin to bind and activate the cell.

The new experiment examined the gene that codes for a vasopressin receptor in the human brain. A group of 500 couples who had been together over five years were tested. To observe the behavior each volunteer filled out a questionnaire with questions like “How often do you kiss your mate?” or “Have you discussed divorce with a friend?” Results show that allele 334, a variation of the gene, was associated with higher odds of marital conflict, especially in men. Scientists remain skeptical, however, as the issue of behavior can be affected by so many things other than genetics.

With an interest in clinical psychology and a fascination for the effects of genetics on human behavior, I find this article entertaining. Though women must realize that marriage relationships result not only from genetic material but also the behavior of both individuals, it still remains rather interesting that this allele could cause commitment-phobia in men.

Source: http://www.sciencenews.org/view/generic/id/36069/title/Gene_linked_to_commitment-phobia

Section 501