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Marriage and personality: a genetic analysis.
Wendy Johnson1, Matt McGue, Robert F Krueger
1Department of Psychology, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA. john4350@tc.umn.edu
Journal of Personality and Social Psychology
|February 11, 2004
Summary
Genetic factors influence personality traits that may predispose individuals to marry. This study found that the tendency to marry is heritable, with personality playing a genetically influenced role.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Genetics
- Psychology
- Sociology
Background:
- Married individuals often exhibit better life outcomes compared to unmarried peers.
- The role of self-selection, particularly genetic influences, in marriage propensity is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the phenotypic associations between personality traits and the propensity to marry.
- To determine the heritability of the propensity to marry.
- To assess the extent of genetic influence on the relationship between personality and marriage propensity.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a large population-based sample comprising 4,225 women and 2,869 men.
- Included 2,527 complete twin pairs for genetic analysis.
- Examined phenotypic correlations and heritability estimates.
Main Results:
- Propensity to marry was found to be heritable.
- A significant phenotypic link exists between personality traits and the propensity to marry.
- Genetic factors substantially influence this personality-marriage propensity association.
Conclusions:
- Genetic influences on personality contribute to the propensity to marry.
- Self-selection through genetically influenced personality traits may partially explain marriage benefits.
- This research highlights the interplay between genetics, personality, and marital behavior.