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Genetic similarity and mate selection in Uruguay
M Sans1, I Alvarez, S M Callegari-Jacques
1Department of Anthropology, School of Humanities and Sciences of Education, University of the Republic, Montevideo, Uruguay.
Journal of Biosocial Science
|July 1, 1994
Summary
Genetic similarity in human mate choice is not supported by this study. Analysis of blood genetic markers in 183 couples found no significant link between genetic similarity and partner selection.
Area of Science:
- Human genetics
- Evolutionary biology
- Behavioral genetics
Background:
- Previous research suggested average genetic similarity influences human mate choice.
- Genetic markers in blood have been used to assess this similarity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of average genetic similarity in human mate choice.
- To compare genetic similarity in real couples versus random pairs.
Main Methods:
- Assessed average genetic similarity in 183 couples using six blood group systems and three HLA loci.
- Compared couples with and without paternity exclusion.
- Compared real couples to random pairs.
Main Results:
- No statistically significant differences were found in genetic similarity between couples.
- Exclusionary paternity cases did not differ significantly from non-exclusionary cases in genetic similarity.
- Real couples did not show significant differences in genetic similarity compared to random pairs.
Conclusions:
- The study did not find evidence supporting a role for average genetic similarity in human mate choice.
- Results contrast with previous suggestions, and reasons for discrepancies are discussed.
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