Abstract
OXTR rs53576, a polymorphism on the oxytocin receptor gene, has previously been linked to individual differences in social behaviors. That is, individuals with the GG genotype show greater empathy, sociability, and emotional stability. In the context of close relationships, such psychological resources are associated with better relationship outcomes. However, no studies to our knowledge have examined associations between spouses’ OXTR polymorphisms, attachment security, and marital satisfaction. In the current study, 178 married couples (N = 356; ages 37–90) completed self-report measures of attachment security and marital satisfaction and provided saliva samples for genotyping. Results from Actor Partner Interdependence Models showed that individuals who had the GG genotype (actor effect) or had a spouse with the GG genotype (partner effect) reported greater marital satisfaction than individuals with AA or AG genotypes. Furthermore, greater attachment security mediated associations between GG genotype and marital satisfaction.
Highlights
Attachment security, the feeling of emotional safety that comes from a history of close others being responsive to one’s needs, is associated with numerous benefits for married couples [1]
Past research has examined associations between genetic markers and attachment security [5,6], no study to our knowledge has examined whether the OXTR rs53576 genotype is associated with relationship outcomes and whether attachment security plays a role in this process
Supporting our hypothesis, we found a significant association between one’s own GG genotype and one’s own greater marital satisfaction
Summary
Attachment security, the feeling of emotional safety that comes from a history of close others being responsive to one’s needs, is associated with numerous benefits for married couples [1]. While attachment security is thought to be influenced mainly by social experiences throughout the life course, a few studies have shown associations with genetic markers [4]. One such genetic marker is the oxytocin receptor (OXTR rs53576) polymorphism which has been linked with psychological resources more broadly, such as social bonding, empathy, sociability, and emotional stability [5]. The aim of this study was to examine among midlife and older adult married couples whether one’s own OXTR rs53576 genotype and one’s spouse’s OXTR rs53576 genotype
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