Genetics and Personality: What You Should Know

Genetics and Personality: What You Need To Know

There are many personality traits – so many that even experts cannot agree exactly on how many there are. Various factors affect these traits and there have been numerous studies on whether personality traits are the product of nature or nurture. 

 

Nature says that personality traits are a result of where someone came from as the good old saying would tell you, “the apple does not fall far from the tree.” Nurture says it doesn’t matter where the apple came from, only that it was picked up, cared for, and taught to be a good apple (this is hypothetical, of course, apples are not sentient).

 

 

A personality DNA test can give you more insights into your personality traits and whether or not you have inherited certain variations from your parents. LifeDNA offers various plans you can try today.

Are personality traits genetic?

Genetics and personality can go hand in hand. Studies would say that there is a huge percentage of your personality that was inherited from your parents and your ancestors. One study suggests that there is a 30 to 60 percent chance of inheriting certain traits and various psychological conditions. Genetics play an important role in determining whether you have a personality trait that is stronger or weaker than another. 

 

So, what are some genetic personality traits? The big 5 personality traits are often known by the acronym O.C.E.A.N. which stands for Openness,  Conscientiousness, Extroversion, Agreeableness, and Neuroticism. To know more about your personality traits, try LifeDNA today.

Openness

One of the “Big Five” dimensions of personality, openness refers to the ability of an individual to learn new things and be open to new experiences. If you took a DNA personality test and it says you have high levels of openness, you are most likely to be creative and adventurous. This trait is also closely associated with intelligence because being open to new things and experiences challenges your mental capabilities.

Conscientiousness

 

Conscientious individuals tend to be thoughtful. They have good impulse control and are more goal-oriented compared to their peers. They process their emotions carefully and assess the next steps to take. They can be methodical and tend to plan everything as much as possible but this trait is usually what makes them succeed in their goals.

Extroversion

 

Sometimes also spelled as extraversion, this personality trait is possessed by individuals who are the life of the party. Extroverted people are sociable, charming, assertive, and have high emotional expressiveness. A DNA personality test can tell you that if you are likely to be extroverted, you most likely love being around people and going to social gatherings. You feel most at home when there are plenty of familiar (and unfamiliar) faces around.

Agreeableness

 

Agreeable people are not those who always say yes and agree to everything. Being agreeable is a much more complex personality trait and it involves being good at social interactions, assessing other people’s emotions (being sympathetic and empathetic), and having a persuasive nature. If your personality DNA test says that you may be less likely to be agreeable and disregard their emotions and feelings over your own.

Neuroticism

 

Neuroticism refers to an individual’s long-term and consistent emotional state, especially in the face of danger, loss, or stress. If you tend to be neurotic, you are more likely to experience frequent mood swings, anxiety, depression, and irritability. Being overly neurotic can be damaging to your quality of life if not managed properly.


If you are wondering whether you have inherited some of your personality traits, a DNA test such as LifeDNA offers can give you more insight into your personal behaviours. Discover more about yourself and how you can have a more fulfilling life based on your genetic makeup. Try LifeDNA today.

Depression: Genetic testing for mental health

Genetic testing for mental health: Depression, loneliness, and more

Did you know that depression can be influenced by DNA? In this article, we will discuss how mental health, depression, and genetics are related and how understanding these relationships can help you take action on optimizing your well-being.

Why is mental health important?

Mental health refers to the state of mental well-being that allows people to manage life’s difficulties, develop their potential, study and work effectively, and contribute to their communities. 

 

It is a crucial element of health and well-being that supports both our individual and group capabilities to decide, form connections, and influence the world we live in. However, it is frequently misunderstood and overlooked.

Is depression genetic?

As you may already know. millions of individuals throughout the world are experiencing depression, a prevalent mental health condition that can significantly influence daily life.

 

Depression (major depressive disorder) is a common and serious medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, think, and act. Depression causes feelings of sadness and/or a loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed.

 

You’re probably wondering, “is there a genetic component to depression?”

 

The truth is depression can be amplified by external variables such as stressful life events and stress, but DNA also has an important role in the development of this condition.

 

Depression & DNA

Depending on your DNA, you may be more likely to experience depressive symptoms. 

 

However, anyone can experience depression, and most people may experience depression at least briefly in their lifetimes.

 

If you want to take genetic testing for mental health, LifeDNA can give you insights into your likelihood of depression, loneliness, and other unique traits based on your DNA. Check out our personalized DNA plans to learn more. 


Neuroticism: are personality traits genetic?

Aside from depression, one other important trait that can impact your well-being is Neuroticism. 

 

Neuroticism is one of the Big Five personality traits. It is a long-term and relatively stable tendency to be in a negative or anxious emotional state, especially in response to threats, frustration, or loss. 

 

Individuals who score high in this trait tend to experience mood swings, anxiety, irritability, and sadness. 

 

Neuroticism can also be damaging to the quality of your life and reduce your lifespan.

 

Depending on your DNA, you may have an increased likelihood of being moody and experiencing feelings such as anxiety, worry, fear, anger, frustration, envy, jealousy, guilt, depression, and loneliness. 

 

Get your mental health DNA test today for Neuroticism and unlock LifeDNA’s Personality & Congition Report. 

 

LifeDNA’s genetic testing for mental health

If you or a loved one are struggling with mental health challenges, consider exploring the potential benefits of genetic testing. 

 

By gaining a deeper understanding of your unique genetic makeup, you can better understand your genetic risk factors for mental health issues, and ultimately, make more informed decisions about your well-being. 

 

Take charge of your mental health journey today and see what genetic testing can do for you.