Abstract:
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.
