Extraversion as a mediator of genetic effects on positive affect in Korean adolescent girls

Abstract

Recent genomic findings provide evidence for genetic variation underlying individual differences in well-being, yet the mechanisms through which genetic factors translate into emotional experiences remain poorly understood. Accordingly, this study aims to examine whether a polygenic score (PGS) correlates with positive emotions, thereby addressing the genetic basis of emotional well-being. Moreover, based on prior evidence linking extraversion to both genetic predispositions and positive emotions, we further examined whether extraversion mediates this relationship. Using the PGS for happiness derived from a recent genome-wide association study conducted with Korean populations, we assessed the genetic basis of happiness in relation to positive affect among Korean adolescent girls (N = 211, Mean age = 15.8 yrs (SD = 0.3 yrs)). Mediation analysis revealed a significant indirect effect of happiness PGS on positive affect through extraversion, but no significant direct effect. These findings suggest that genetic influences on well-being exert their effects through personality traits rather than directly modulating emotional states, underscoring the importance of considering mediating psychological constructs in genetic models of well-being.