Key to long marriage could be in the genes

THE secret to a happy marriage lies in your genes, scientists have discovered, with new research finding a predisposition not to be anxious is the key to marital stability.

A study by Yale University, which examined 178 married couples, found a common genetic trait among those whose marriages were more secure.

Researchers focused on the role of the GG genotype, a genetic variation that affects oxytocin, a hormone related to social bonding.

They found that once factors such as physical attraction and shared values had been taken into account, the genotype explained what those who felt themselves secure in their marriages had in common.

“This study shows that how we feel in our close relationships is influenced by more than just our shared experiences with our partners,” said Prof Joan Monin, who led the study.

“In marriage, people are also influenced by their and their partner’s genetic predispositions.”

The researchers also found that people with the GG genotype reported less anxious attachment in their marriage, which also benefited their relationship.

Anxious attachment is a type of relationship insecurity that develops from past experiences with close family members and partners.

The study found that an individual’s GG genotype and their partner’s GG genotype together accounted for about 4 per cent of the variance of marital satisfaction.

The authors said that although this percentage appeared small, it was significant when placed alongside other factors.

The study is published in the journal PLOS ONE.