Sep 3, 2008 11:54 am US/Eastern
Monogamy Gene: More Myth Than Reality
MIAMI (CBS4) ―
Ladies – how faithful your spouse is to you may be all in his genes.
At least that's theory behind a Swedish study which says there is evidence that a man's DNA makeup could have something to do with how faithful he is in a relationship. They call it the 'monogamy gene'.
"It's a very delicate balance between oxytocin, which is a cuddle hormone, and vasopressin which can either make you a cuddler or a cheater," said
CBS4 health specialist Dr. Sean Kenniff.
The Swedish study found that some men don't have the gene at all. However the more the gene, the study report says the less likely he'll make a good husband.
While the study of the so called 'monogamy gene' has some people talking, some researchers say we shouldn't take it completely to heart since it is unlikely that one gene is responsible for sexual tendencies.
"A complex characteristic like monogamy, or polygamy which would be the opposite, is most like controlled not only by many genes, probably hundreds, but is heavily influenced by the environment," said Dr. Rene Herrera, a professor of genetics at Florida International University.
University of Miami Psychiatrist Dr. Eva Ritvo agrees. She says while it is tempting to blame a single gene for the failure for the success of a marriage, it is the foundation which will make a relationship work.
"What helps a relationship is one, having realistic expectations; two, having honest and open communication; and three, having a shared value system or having a lot in common and then work," said Ritvo.
In short, according to relationship experts, it may not be wise just yet to blame infidelity on a man's genes.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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