Understanding the Role of DNA in Relationship Compatibility
Is compatibility with your partner affected by your genes? Do you like your partner because you are a good DNA match? With recent developments in DNA testing technology, more people are turning to genetics for answers to these and other questions. Some researchers claim that genetic compatibility tests can be used to predict not only sexual compatibility, but also the likelihood of infidelity.
Research in DNA Relationship Compatibility
One of the pioneers in the field of couples DNA compatibility, psychologist Christine Garver-Apgar of the University of New Mexico, revealed a study in 2007 that essentially tested genetic compatibility in couples.
In her study, Garver-Apgar surveyed and conducted DNA tests on 48 romantically involved couples. In couples with similar MHC genes, women were more likely to be attracted to other men during the most fertile part of their cycle. Fertility was determined by measuring the level of luteinizing hormone in females.
Understanding DNA Compatibility Tests
The parts of DNA thought to be linked to sexual attraction are MHC (major histocompatibility) proteins. The DNA compatibility test used in Garver-Apgar’s study and other DNA compatibility tests are simple and relatively non-invasive, only requiring a swab sample from the inside of the subject’s cheek.
Using DNA Compatibility Tests for Matching Relationships
There are several dating sites that claim to use a DNA compatibility test to determine couple relationship matches. Matching services include scientificmatch.com and genepartner.com. Genetic compatibility matching services are certainly not cheap. For example, scientificmatch.com charges clients about $2,000 a year.
Although these sites claim that couples will have more sexual chemistry, healthier children, and better chances of long-term success, there is no evidence that DNA compatibility tests are more effective than other types of compatibility tests and personality preference surveys.
There are several arguments that a DNA compatibility test may be ineffective. One could see how DNA-based dating sites are, in many ways, just another common interest-based dating site. Similar to religion based dating sites, or dating sites for successful working professionals, DNA based dating tests match two people who might believe they will be a good match simply because they have been told that they will be a good match.
Accuracy of DNA Compatibility Tests
The accuracy of DNA sexual compatibility tests and DNA-based relationship compatibility tests is debatable, as is the relevancy. There is really no way to determine if a relationship is successful based on DNA, common interests or similar personalities. Certainly there are many factors aside from DNA matches determining whether or not a relationship will stand the test of time. Likewise, while it may be seemingly helpful to have science on your side, how much of the success from DNA matches is really due to DNA compatibility?
Scientificmatch.com, in addition to testing for DNA match, also considers personality questionnaires and other preferences selected by members.
In conclusion, the relevance of DNA compatibility tests in relationships is not completely decided. Accuracy is debatable, but some tests have reached interesting conclusions. DNA does play a role in sexual chemistry and attraction, but it is really just one factor among many. DNA research now tells us there is still much to learn in the years to come.
Resources
Genepartner GmBH (2008). The science behind GenePartner. Retrieved August 27, 2008, from the Genepartner.com Web site: www.genepartner.com/index.php?c=08&si=1.
Livescience.com (2008). Opposites attract: Compatibility's in the genes. Retrieved August 27, 2008, from the MSNBC Web site: www.msnbc.msn.com/id/17048922/.
Singer, Emily (2008). DNA-based dating. Retrieved August 27, 2008, from the Technology Review Web site: www.technologyreview.com/blog/editors/22099/.
Wenzel, Elisa (2007). DNA dating site predicts chemical romance. Retrieved August 27, 2008, from the Cnet News Web site: news.cnet.com/8301-10784_3-9834683-7.html.
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