So far literature considered the association between environmental factors (i.e. involved in adult relationships) and genetic vulnerability on Oxytocin Receptor Gene (OXTR) in the comprehension of social behavior. Although an extensive knowledge on in-person social interactions has been obtained, little is known about online social behavior. A gene-environment perspective is adopted to examine how OXTR and adult attachment moderate Instagram behavior. The Experience in Close Relationships-Revised (ECR-R) questionnaire was used to collect participants' (N = 57, 16 males) attachment with their partners. The genetic factors within the regions OXTR rs53576 (A/A homozygotes vs. G-carriers) and rs2254298 (G/G homozygotes vs. A-carriers) were assessed. Number of posts, followed people ("followings") and followers were obtained from Instagram, and the Social Desirability Index was calculated as the ratio of followers to followings. Interaction effects between OXTR groups and ECR-R scores on the number of posts and SDI were hypothesised. Results showed an effect of rs53576 on the number of Instagram followings. Specifically, A/A homozygotes had more followings than G-carriers independently of the quality of the relationship with their partner. These preliminary results are discussed in light of the debate of behavioral genetics and offer insights into future investigations on social media behavior.
The relation between oxytocin receptor gene polymorphisms, adult attachment and Instagram sociability: An exploratory analysis
