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Human sexual behavior is highly variable both within and between populations. While sex-related characteristics and sexual behavior are central to evolutionary theory sexual selection , little is known about the genetic bases of individual variation in sexual behavior.
The variable number tandem repeats VNTR polymorphism in exon III of the human dopamine D4 receptor gene DRD4 has been correlated with an array of behavioral phenotypes and may be predicatively responsible for variation in motivating some sexual behaviors, particularly promiscuity and infidelity. We administered an anonymous survey on personal history of sexual behavior and intimate relationships to young adults. DRD4 VNTR genotype varies considerably within and among populations and has been subject to relatively recent, local selective pressures.
Individual differences in sexual behavior are likely partially mediated by individual genetic variation in genes coding for motivation and reward in the brain.
Human sexual behavior varies dramatically across human populations, including patterns of promiscuity and sexual infidelity [1] β [3]. While mating and pair-bonding are human universals [1] , [4] , individuals also engage in uncommitted short-term sexual activities at varying rates [1] , [5]. Yet, the proximate mechanisms governing the individual differences in proclivities for uncommitted sexual behavior are unclear. In the current study we explore the role of individual genetic variation in influencing motivations for uncommitted sexual activity.
