Could unfaithfulness be caused by genetics?

**Bababam** (0:02)
Bababam Could unfaithfulness be caused by genetics?
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No one's proud of being unfaithful. But what if some people's cheating was actually caused by genetics rather than selfishness? That might sound like a convenient excuse, but actually there could be some scientific basis behind it. You see, in 2022, researchers at the University of Queensland in Australia analysed the DNA of over 7,300 twins aged between 18 and 49, all of whom had been in relationships for several years. The study showed that nearly 10% of men and just over 6% of women admitted to having been unfaithful in the 12 months before the study. The researchers then compared the genetic profiles of identical twins and fraternal twins to look for patterns. Why twins, you ask? Because they're perfect for separating what's down to nature from what's down to nurture.
Identical twins share 100% of their DNA, while fraternal twins share only about 50%, just like ordinary siblings. So if identical twins are more likely to cheat in the same way than fraternal twins, that's a strong clue that genetics has something to do with it. If not, then it's probably more about upbringing, environment or personal circumstances.
What were the study's results then? For men, the researchers found that around 63% of cheating behaviour could be linked to inherited genes. For women, the figure was lower at around 40%. The key suspect here is something called the Avpria gene. It influences the production of a hormone called Arginine Vasopressin, which plays a role in social bonding and emotional attachment. Dr. Brendan Zeach, one of the study's lead researchers, explained in an interview with The Telegraph that variations in this gene may affect how connected we feel to our partners and therefore how likely we are to stray. To back up their findings, the team also studied voles. That's because prairie voles are famously loyal, sticking with one partner for life, while field voles are far more promiscuous. And guess what? Differences in the Avprea gene also seem to be behind that distinction. Are some people simply programmed to cheat then? Not so fast. Before you start using your DNA as an excuse, the researchers stress that it's far more complicated than that. After all, genetics are messy, and behaviours are rarely shaped by a single gene. Multiple genes interact with each other, and social and environmental factors also come into play. In other words, just because you have the Avprea gene doesn't mean you're destined to be unfaithful. Still, if you're going on a first date, it might be worth asking your partner for a genetic test. You know, just to be safe. There you have it.
Now you know whether unfaithfulness could be caused by genetics. In under three minutes, we answer your questions and help you understand the true meaning behind the trends, concepts and acronyms that are making headlines. Listen along and you will really know for sure.