Your Genes May Decide If You’re Happy in Your Marriage, Study Finds

Since the 1970s there has been a significant increase in divorce rates globally. It is of no surprise, then, that researchers do their best to find causes that might lead to separation. Some of them also study the factors that can make a marriage more successful and harmonious, usually taking into account the age and education level of the couples.

We at Bright Side came across a study that suggests that our genes can have an important role to play when it comes to a happy marriage.

The link between genes and a happy marriage

Researchers at the University of Arkansas studied 71 newlywed couples, asking them to fill out surveys about their relationship every 4 months, for 3 years. In the meantime, they also collected DNA samples from the couples. The scientists conducting the study discovered that a gene variation might be responsible for a successful marriage. According to the results, people who had the ’marriage gene’ reported having a much happier relationship than those who lacked the variation.

Couples who have the “marriage gene” develop a stronger bond.

The study suggests that genes can have an impact on the bonding process that happens in the very early days of marriage. Having a strong bond is crucial if 2 people plan to spend the rest of their lives together. And those who have the ’marriage gene’ reported a stronger bond and fewer difficulties with their partner.

Our DNA can impact our trust, forgiveness, and satisfaction levels in a relationship.

The scientists who conducted the study found a clear link between the “marriage gene” and other important factors in a relationship besides bonding. Those who have the gene variation trust their partner more, can forgive them more easily, and are overall notably more satisfied with married life than those who lack the gene.

Other studies confirm that genes can predict the quality of a marriage.

Previous research seems to prove that genetics play an important role in the success of a marriage. According to a 2017 study, divorce might be genetic and high divorce rates could be inherited just like other attributes. While another more recent study suggests that oxytocin, popularly known as the “love hormone,” could be the key to a successful marriage. According to researchers, the gene responsible for regulating the production of oxytocin could impact the satisfaction people feel in their intimate relationships.

Couples who lack the “marriage gene” can still have a healthy relationship.

Even if neither partner is genetically blessed, that doesn’t mean their marriage is doomed to fail. While they might have more issues to work on, couples who lack the “marriage gene” can still have a long and healthy relationship if they can overcome some difficulties.

Do you think genes could be the main reason newlyweds stay together or are there more important points to consider? Share your opinion with us in the comment section below!