Dr. Avnish Jolly, 3rd September, 2008:Genetic Researchers believe they have identified a gene in human males that promotes monogamy. According to latest study (Walum, et al. 2008) was conducted among Swedish men and found that men can have zero, one, or two copies of this monogamy gene, called allele 334. Person with a double helping of the gene were less likely to be married, but if they were, those with two copies of the gene were twice as likely to have a marital crisis as those with one or zero copies of the monogamy gene. Female partners of men with two copies of the monogamy gene were also more likely to report themselves as being less satisfied with their relationship. In the same way, the benefits of a committed marriage may need to be reinforced from time to time.
Adopting the simple habit of thinking each day of three reasons why you love being married to your wife can have a powerful reinforcing effect on your relationship. It also provides a ready way to counter those temptations that do come along. Having two copies of the monogamy gene may mean you have to work harder to maintain a loving, committed relationship, but after all, don’t we all have a higher appreciation for the things we work hardest to achieve?
It means that there’s a four in ten chance that your man has two copies of the monogamy gene and he may be wired to cheat. Should you expect problems with your relationship? Not at all. Genetic tendencies do not supplant free will. Having two copies of the monogamy gene, simple makes it a little more difficult to behave in a certain way. We all make choices every day of our lives, and some are more difficult than others. Whether it’s choosing a salad over a pepperoni pizza, hitting the snooze button on the alarm clock, or wearing a seatbelt, there are things that we do, because we know we should. Most of them are not the easiest choice.
Every male and female is capable of deciding to be faithful to their spouse without regard to their genetic make-up. This study is not a get out of jail free card for wandering partners. It does mean, however, that certain people may need to be more careful. When I’m trying to lose weight, I avoid the bakery. Similarly, people who feel they are at risk, should avoid situations that may lead to temptation. Regularly carpooling with a coworker of the opposite sex, going out to clubs or bars at night without your spouse, and similar activities should be avoided.