Is Empathy in our Genes

A Health.com article among other articles found discusses whether our emotional reactions to others is the result of coding in our genes. A new study suggests that traits such as being open, caring and trusting are linked so closely with this genes, that a trained individual monitoring human interactions could determine whether there was variation in said gene. Previous studies have also linked genes to behaviors such as bonding empathy and anxiety. This gene acts as a docking station for the chemical oxytocin found in the brain. People with two "G" variants of this receptor tend to have better social skills and higher self esteem while those with at least one "A" variant have a more difficult time with stress and have worse mental health.

It is also important to recognize that these oxytocin receptors are not the only determining factor of social behavior. Life experiences and surroundings are known to effect the oxytocin receptors, thus affecting an individuals social behavior. Having the "A" variant does not automatically result in poor social skills, but it is interesting to see thehigh correlation between the two.