Gene-environment interplay, interpersonal relationships, and development: A volume introduction

A vast majority of research has typically examined interpersonal relationships as “environmental factors” More recently, behavioral genetics research has demonstrated that both genetic and environmental factors contribute to variation in interpersonal relationships. The current volume addresses the role of both genetic and environmental influences on interpersonal relationships at different key stages across the lifespan. Specifically, this volume discusses the extent to which genetic and/or environmental influences contribute to specific types of interpersonal relationships (e.g., parent-child, sibling, peer, work, and marital relationships) at different across childhood and adulthood. Finally,Âthe function of genes (e.g., gene expression and telomere length) in relation to interpersonal relationships across the lifespan is discussed.