OXTR rs53576 polymorphism impacts interpersonal adaptability: Dispositional forgiveness as a mediator

Area of Science:

• Behavioral genetics
• Social neuroscience
• Psychology

Background:

• Oxytocin receptor (OXTR) gene polymorphisms are linked to social behaviors.
• Interpersonal adaptability, the capacity to manage social interaction demands, is crucial for relationships.
• The specific role of OXTR gene variants in interpersonal adaptability requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between the OXTR rs53576 polymorphism and interpersonal adaptability.
• To examine the relationship between this polymorphism and empathic perception and dispositional forgiveness.
• To determine if dispositional forgiveness mediates the link between OXTR rs53576 and interpersonal adaptability.

Main Methods:

• Genotyping of the OXTR rs53576 polymorphism in 573 college freshmen.
• Assessment of interpersonal adaptability, empathic perception, and dispositional forgiveness using validated scales.
• Statistical analysis to evaluate the impact of the OXTR rs53576 genotype on measured traits and mediation effects.

Main Results:

• Interpersonal adaptability and dispositional forgiveness scores increased with the number of G alleles at OXTR rs53576.
• Empathic perception was not significantly associated with the OXTR rs53576 polymorphism.
• Dispositional forgiveness mediated the relationship between OXTR rs53576 and interpersonal adaptability.

Conclusions:

• The OXTR rs53576 polymorphism influences interpersonal adaptability, partly through its effect on dispositional forgiveness.
• These findings underscore the genetic contribution of the OXTR gene to adaptive social functioning, particularly in dynamic social contexts.
• Understanding OXTR gene variations offers insights into individual differences in social competence and relationship management.