Study Suggests Genetics May Play a Role in Divorce

There are a variety of factors that can contribute to divorce. Money woes, infidelity, poor communication, and even family tragedy can throw marital relationships into a tailspin. One factor many may not consider, though, is one’s genetic makeup. Sure, researchers have known for years that those who grow up in families with divorced parents are more likely to divorce, but it was not until recently that they found a potential link between divorce and one’s DNA.

The study, which occurred in Sweden, analyzed nearly 20,000 marriages of adopted children. Researchers assessed the number of divorces amongst this group, then compared that to divorce amongst the subjects’ biological and adoptive parents. Surprisingly, the study found that those individuals whose biological parents divorced were 20 percent more likely to get divorced themselves when compared to those in the study whose biological parents stayed together or whose adoptive parents divorced.

Of course, this study is only preliminary and may exclude consideration of other relevant, non-genetically-driven factors that can contribute to divorce. For example, those who may be more inclined to act financially irresponsible may find themselves facing more marital problems and this may or may not have any link to one’s genetic makeup. What it does demonstrate is that there are a number of reasons a couple may break up and some of them may be due to people exhibiting inherited behaviors.

Regardless of why marriage dissolution occurs, those who are involved in the process oftentimes find themselves in need of legal assistance. A skilled attorney can help individuals develop strong legal arguments to support their positions, whether it is for the establishment or modification of child support, seeking sole custody of a child, or fighting for or against alimony.