Largest-Ever Genetic Study of Personality Finds 1,260 DNA Variants Tied to Traits
Researchers found 1,260 linked variants, but DNA explained only 7.4% to 10.6% of personality differences and predicted less than 4% of variation.
- On September 2, 2026, the Revived Genomics of Personality Consortium published a study in Nature identifying 1,260 genetic variants linked to Big Five personality traits using data from around 1.14 million participants across 46 cohorts.
- Led by Michigan State University's Ted Schwaba, the team combined personality and genetic data to investigate how genetics influence personality, confirming it is a combination of genetics and environment rather than genetics alone.
- The analysis revealed 824 previously unknown variants, with DNA accounting for only around 13% of personality variation. Genetic effects on personality were nearly identical between family members and unrelated people.
- Genetic variants associated with neuroticism predict increased hospital stays, while openness-linked variants correlate with career changes and income. Personality genetics now link to dozens of life outcomes including health, education, and longevity.
- The University of Bristol's Michel Nivard cautioned that individual personality is not measurable via genome, though genetics offers a tool to link personality to broader life outcomes across populations. Researchers hope the findings encourage other scientists to incorporate personality traits into their fields.
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37 Articles
Scientists Map Genetics of Personality across Million People
Researchers have identified more than 1,200 locations in the human genome associated with personality traits, offering the most detailed look yet at the biological underpinnings of traits like sociability, anxiety and curiosity. The post Scientists Map Genetics of Personality across Million People appeared first on Sci.News: Breaking Science News.
A study with over a million people finds more than 1,000 gene variants that affect personality. Environment and experience continue to count.
The personality of a person is as individual as the fingerprint. But do qualities predict a certain way of life? A new study provides initial clues.
Hundreds of gene variants have been found to influence personality, although the role of environment appears to be far more important. The post Large genetic study links DNA to personality appeared first on in.gr.
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