# Genetic study of personality traits

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/20261028-genetic-study-of-personality-traits
> Updated: 2026-10-28T07:30:52.000Z. Sources: 7. Developments: 2.

An international research group published a meta-analysis in the journal Nature identifying 1,260 genetic variants associated with the ‘Big Five’ personality traits: extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, neuroticism, and openness to experience. The study utilized DNA and personality data from over one million individuals across 46 research groups worldwide.

Researchers found that personality is shaped by a complex interplay of many genetic variants rather than a single gene. The analysis identified 824 significant associations in DNA regions not previously linked to these traits. 

Subsequent findings highlighted that these variants connect to over 16,000 common variants influencing personality and revealed genetic overlaps between these traits and various conditions, including mental health disorders, substance abuse, and physical health levels. The scale of the data is expected to assist in mapping the ‘average’ human genome and advancing precision medicine by helping scientists understand how specific DNA changes influence disease probability and treatment responses.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-28: Large-scale genetic study identifies thousands of variants linked to personality and health

A study of nearly one million people has identified thousands of genetic variants that collectively shape personality traits and influence risks for various mental and physical health conditions.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/large-scale-genetic-study-identifies-thousands-of-variants-linked-to-personality-and-health

### 2026-10-23: Genetic study identifies 1,260 variants linked to personality traits

A massive international study has identified 1,260 genetic variants linked to the ‘Big Five’ personality traits, though researchers note no single gene dictates human behavior.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/genetic-study-identifies-thousands-of-variants-shaping-personality

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Cite as: Genetic study of personality traits. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/20261028-genetic-study-of-personality-traits
