Researchers have been debating whether monogamy and infidelity are “natural” for years. In my own book, The New Monogamy, I referenced quite a few studies and experts on this very topic. A new study has found that some people may have a gene that predisposes them to infidelity or monogamy. Brendan P. Zietsch, a psychologist at the University of Queensland, Australia looked at infidelity rates correlated with vasopressin and oxytocin receptor genes, two hormones known to influence pair bonding and promiscuous sexual behavior. Zietsch found that “forty percent of the variation in promiscuous behavior in women could be attributed to genes.” (Infidelity Lurks in Your Genes)
At the same time, Christin L. Munsch, a sociologist at the University of Connecticut, was trying to determine whether socioeconomic factors have an influence on infidelity. Munsch found that when couples are more financially dependent on each other, they are more likely to have an affair. However, this factor appears to affect men more than women: “For economically dependent persons, infidelity may be an attempt to restore relationship equity; however, for men, dependence may be particularly threatening. Infidelity may allow economically dependent men to engage in compensatory behavior while simultaneously distancing themselves from breadwinning spouses.” (Study: Financially dependent spouses are more likely to cheat)
As with all research, it’s important to careful consider that this is correlation, not necessarily causation – don’t drag your partner down to the genetics lab to have them tested for this gene or give up your successful career. But it certainly opens the door for discussion about whether exclusive sexual fidelity is best suited for everyone.
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