Open Access Te Herenga Waka-Victoria University of Wellington
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Genes, beats and traits: A multi-marker exploration of personality

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posted on 2021-11-14, 04:39 authored by Lee, Anna Sian

This research explores associations between genetic polymorphisms in dopamine and serotonin systems (DAT1, DRD4 and 5HTTLPR polymorphisms), physiological and environmental variables and multiple personality traits. 113 participants were genotyped, participated in a stressful cross-cultural negotiation exercise and completed personality scales while wearing heart-rate monitors. Heart-rate variability and stressful life events were associated with conscientiousness and neuroticism traits. Contradicting previous research, no reliable gene x stressful life event interactions were found. Gender and ethnicity masked genetic effects on neurotic and sensation-seeking traits, particularly for DAT1 and 5HTTLPR. The DRD4-7R allele was associated with higher agreeableness and lower neuroticism, and contrary to prediction, with lower sensation-seeking. Gene-trait relations are complex, interactionist and multiply-determined, suggesting that personality variation is influenced by – but not reducible to – genetic variation.

History

Copyright Date

2014-01-01

Date of Award

2014-01-01

Publisher

Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington

Rights License

Author Retains Copyright

Degree Discipline

Psychology

Degree Grantor

Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington

Degree Level

Masters

Degree Name

Master of Science

ANZSRC Type Of Activity code

970117 Expanding Knowledge in Psychology and the Cognitive sciences

Victoria University of Wellington Item Type

Awarded Research Masters Thesis

Language

en_NZ

Victoria University of Wellington School

School of Psychology

Advisors

Fischer, Ronald