A Focused Approach To Divorce And Family Law

Are some people genetically prone to divorce?

On Behalf of | Jan 29, 2025 | Divorce |

Divorce affects countless families each year, with each situation bringing its own unique challenges and circumstances. You might face financial stress, emotional turmoil or communication breakdowns that lead to the end of your marriage.

These factors often intertwine with personal struggles and mental health challenges. Recent research suggests psychological disorders can play a significant role in marital stability, affecting how couples handle conflict and maintain their relationships.

The link between genetic disorders and divorce

You probably know that genetic testing can reveal your risk for various health conditions, from heart disease to certain types of cancer. Scientists have now discovered similar genetic patterns may influence relationship outcomes.

Research shows psychological disorders and divorce often occur together, raising questions about which comes first. Does mental health lead to divorce, or does divorce trigger mental health issues?

Researchers propose a third possibility: some genetic factors might increase your risk for both psychological disorders and divorce.

Interpreting family genetic risk factors

A groundbreaking Rutgers University study examined genetic risk patterns for psychiatric disorders in over 2.8 million Swedish individuals. The research focused on these disorders:

  • Major depression
  • Autism spectrum disorder
  • ADHD
  • Drug use disorder
  • Alcohol use disorder
  • Anorexia nervosa
  • Schizophrenia
  • Bipolar disorder
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder

The findings revealed that divorced individuals showed higher genetic risk scores across all disorders compared to those in stable marriages. People who never married fell somewhere in between these two groups.

So, do some have a divorce gene?

While no single “divorce gene” exists, your genetic makeup can influence your relationship outcomes. Think of it as inheriting risk factors rather than a predetermined destiny. Your genes create possibilities, not certainties.

Environmental factors, stress levels and life circumstances still play crucial roles in determining whether your marriage thrives or ends in divorce. Understanding these genetic influences can help you make informed decisions about your relationships and seek appropriate support when needed.

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