Do you really know? Could unfaithfulness be caused by genetics?
Oct 1, 2025
What if cheating is in our DNA? A fascinating study from the University of Queensland suggests genetics might play a role in unfaithfulness. By analyzing twins, researchers reveal surprising links between certain genes and infidelity rates. The Avpr1a gene, for example, influences bonding and attachment, leading to insights from vole studies about monogamy versus promiscuity. Yet, while genetics can be a factor, environmental influences also shape our behaviors, reminding us that genes aren't fate.
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Genetics Strongly Linked To Cheating
- A 2022 twin study linked genetics to infidelity, finding ~63% heritability in men and ~40% in women.
- Researchers compared identical and fraternal twins to separate genetic from environmental effects.
A Bonding Gene Might Influence Fidelity
- The Avpr1a gene affects arginine vasopressin production, which influences bonding and attachment.
- Variations in this gene may change how connected people feel to partners and influence fidelity.
Voles Illustrate Human Bonding Differences
- Researchers compared humans with prairie and field voles to illustrate bonding differences.
- Voles show that Avpr1a differences correlate with lifelong monogamy versus promiscuity.