Can our genes really controll our happiness?

Can genetics really answer why some people are better able to look on the bright side of life? A new research conducted in the UK has shown that perhaps there is a link to optimism and a particular gene variant.

The research indicated that when a certain “long” gene variant known as 5-HTTLPR (responsible for controlling the transport of serotonin – a mood-affecting neurotransmitter) was inherited in the genes of an individual they displayed a distinct avoidance of negative images and a preference for more positive ones. These people were nicknamed “LL” carriers. Interestingly in individuals who had inherited one or more of the “short” variant, then this distinct separation was not evident, and they made no preference or avoidance, regardless of the image.

The research involved its 97 participants identifying dots on a screen in either of two adjacent images in a limit of 1 second. One of the images was kept neutral and the other altered between a relatively positive (e.g. a cuddly puppy) and relatively negative (e.g. a fierce animal) image. When presented with a positive image, participants took, on average, 23.5 milliseconds less time to identify the dots than in the neutral image. However when presented with a negative image they took a lot longer with an average of 18.3 milliseconds more time to identify the dots than in a neutral image. The data suggested that when presented with positive images, the LL participants were subliminally drawn to them; likewise when presented with negative ones, they tended to avoid them. Team leader Elaine Fox of the University of Essex, Colchester UK, stated that despite the change in time sounding “very small... in terms of attentional time, it’s consistent”.

Together, Fox and her team came to the conclusion that people who possessed the5-HTTLPR gene were better predisposed to seeking positives in their environment and disregarding any negative aspects. Furthermore, a previous study conducted in individuals possessing the short variant of 5-HTTLPR, indicated a tendency for negativity and anxiety.
So although there are many factors that influence people’s outlook on life, the presence of 5-HTTLPR has shown somewhat of a relationship to optimism.

Link to original article: http://www.newscientist.com/article/dn16662-happiness-gene-helps-you-look-on-the-bright-side.html

Interesting article: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/education/4793996/Happy-gene-could-solve-mystery-of-depression.html