Personality and Genetics

In the last few years the correlation between personality and genetics has been largely investigated. Harm Avoidance seems to be strongly associated with the serotonin transporter gene. The 5-HT1A and the 5-HT3A serotonin receptors and the D2 and D4 dopamine receptors, seem to be also involved, even if results are less unequivocal. Novelty Seeking seems to be associated with dopamine D4 receptor gene, but also the D2 and D3 dopamine receptors, the 5-HT2A serotonin receptor, the MAO-A and the COMT genes have been hypothesized as involved in this trait. Studies on Reward Dependence, Persistence, Self-Directedness, Cooperativeness and Self- Transcendence dimensions are still conflicting. Though further studies are necessary to replicate and validate those results, genetic factors play an important role for specific susceptibilities of human personality.