Scientists have discovered a gene for female happiness

Recent research by researchers at the University of South Florida, Columbia University and the New York State Institute of Psychiatry has led to the discovery of a gene that appears to play a key role in determining happiness levels in women. This finding may help explain why women in general experience more satisfaction and joy in life than men.

The gene that has been identified is called monoamine oxidase A (MAOA). Researchers have found that a weaker form of this gene in women is associated with increased feelings of happiness. The study's leader, Henyang Chen, a professor of epidemiology and biostatistics at the Florida College of Public Health, calls the gene "the first female happiness gene."

An interesting fact is that low activity of the MAOA gene has previously been associated with negative consequences, such as alcoholism, aggression and antisocial behavior. However, new research has shown that this gene has a positive side, at least for women. Decreased MAOA gene expression in women leads to increased levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which are mood hormones associated with feelings of happiness.

Data from 345 people, including 193 women and 152 men, were analyzed for the study. Study participants were genetically analyzed to determine the MAOA gene variation, and their level of happiness was measured using a specially designed scale. The researchers took into account various factors, such as age, education and income, and found that women with one copy of the low-expressing version of the MAOA gene were happier than other study participants. It turned out that the highest level of happiness was in women who have two copies of this gene.

The researchers also suggest that the hormone testosterone may play a role in explaining gender differences. Testosterone levels in women are generally lower than in men, and it is possible that this hormone blocks the beneficial effects of the MAOA gene in men. However, further research is needed to fully understand the relationship between genes and happiness. But it is important to note that genetics is only one of many factors that influence a woman's level of happiness. Happiness also depends on the sociocultural environment, personal life circumstances, relationships and many other aspects. In addition, genes are not clear predictors; their influence may vary depending on other genetic and environmental factors.

This discovery may have further practical applications in the fields of psychology and psychiatry. For example, it is possible that in the future, treatments or therapies will be developed to improve mood and happiness in people with low MAOA gene activity. However, the application of such methods requires further research and development.

Overall, this discovery makes new contributions to our understanding of the biological basis of happiness and may help us better understand why some people are more likely to be happy than others. However, happiness is still a complex and multifaceted phenomenon, and understanding it requires taking into account many factors, including genetic, psychological, social and environmental aspects.