A new study from Rutgers University has revealed a surprising finding: the genes of the people around you can influence your mental health and future. This serves as clear evidence that the advice from parents to “choose your friends wisely” is not just moralistic but is also scientifically grounded.
Social Genetic Influence and Long-term Effects
This research focuses on an emerging field in genetics known as “social genetics.” This phenomenon indicates that the genetic makeup of one person can affect the observable traits of others. Specifically, the research team at Rutgers, led by American health professor Salvatore, discovered that the genetic structure of peers can significantly impact the risk of developing mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and even substance abuse in adulthood.
Salvatore emphasized: “A person’s genetic predisposition to mental illness and substance use disorders not only affects themselves but can also increase this risk in those around them in the future.” This finding is significant as it not only alters our understanding of individual genetics but also opens up new perspectives on the interaction between genes and social environments.
Social genetics influences your future.
This groundbreaking study found that the genetic structure of adolescent peers can have long-lasting effects on an individual’s risk of developing substance use disorders, alcohol use issues, depression, and anxiety.
Research Methodology and Key Findings
To test this hypothesis, the research team created an anonymous database from more than 1.5 million Swedes born between 1980 and 1998, all of whom had Swedish parents. This data was used to track the geographical locations and schools of individuals during their adolescence, creating a detailed map of residential patterns. Subsequently, through health, pharmaceutical, and legal registries, the research team recorded the mental health and substance use disorder statuses of the subjects as they matured.
Statistical models were constructed to evaluate the relationship between the genetic predispositions of peers and the likelihood of an individual developing mental disorders or addictions. The results indicated that even after controlling for factors such as individual genetic predispositions and family socioeconomic factors, this relationship remained clear. Notably, the effect was stronger among schoolmates compared to friends who merely lived in the same area.
The first step in the research was to map the distribution of individuals by location and school during their adolescence. Researchers then used registries to document substance use disorders and mental health issues in these individuals.
Among the age groups studied, those in high school (ages 16 to 19) were the most affected. Specifically, individuals attending school together during this period exhibited a higher risk. Substance use disorders and alcohol issues showed a greater social genetic impact compared to depression and anxiety disorders.
Significance of the Research and Future Prospects
One reason could be that the genetic predispositions of peers influence their behaviors and living environments.
Salvatore’s research raises many questions about the mechanisms of social genetics and why these effects can be so profound. She explains that one reason could be that the genetic predispositions of friends influence their behaviors and living environments, thereby indirectly affecting those around them. However, the study also found that even if peers are not affected by these disorders, their genes can still impact the mental health of others.
This finding suggests that to minimize the risk of mental disorders and substance use in the community, interventions should be based on social networks rather than solely focusing on individual factors. Such interventions could help mitigate the negative impacts of social genetics, particularly during adolescence—a period where peer influence can last a lifetime.
Salvatore also emphasizes that understanding social genetics better could help us develop more effective prevention strategies, reducing risks and improving the quality of life for future generations. In the context of globalization and increasing cultural exchanges, this understanding becomes even more critical.
The research from Rutgers University not only contributes to the development of social genetics but also changes how we perceive the influence of friends in our lives. It highlights that social relationships are not just part of personal development but can have a profound impact on an individual’s health and future. Choosing friends wisely is not merely conventional advice; it is a long-term health and happiness protection strategy.
