Do You Have The “Danger” Gene?: Spidey Sense Is Real

Some people’s genes allow them to spot danger: study

Genetics play a huge role within our every day lives. Some genes enable certain individuals to spot danger very easily. A New Study by the University of British Columbia found that more than 50% of people are genetically predisposed to spot danger where and when ever it may lurk.

The University of British Columbia study indicates that people that have this particular genetic predisposition seem to have very strong emotional memories. In addition, this particular variation in genetics allows a person to view the view in a completely different way.

“We already knew that people who have this genetic variant are more inclined to have strong emotional memories,” said researcher Rebecca Todd, a professor with UBC’s department of psychology. “It turns out they experience the world much more intensely than other people.”

As far as genetics are concerned people who possess the ADRA26 deletion variant are more likely to have strong and emotionally charged thoughts. Emotionally charged thoughts can be the result of Post Traumatic Stress. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is widely recognized today and it can cause a host of psychological problems for an afflicted person.

Individuals that possess the ADRA26 variant are more prone to mental disorders including depression and obsessive thought patterns. In addition, people who are able to sense potential danger tend not to enjoy life to the fullest.

Emotionally charged and obsessive thought patterns can cause a person to always be on their guard. However, a person who can potentially sense danger may also have an advantage over others. Someone who is able to sense danger in advance may have the ability to avoid dangerous situations in the future.

“The findings suggest people experience emotional aspects of the world partly through gene-coloured glasses – and that biological variations at the genetic level can play a significant role in individual differences in perception,” she said.

The ADRA26 deletion variant can cause a significant difference in how a person views the world in general. Most individuals that are able to sense danger usually view most situations in a negative fashion.

Finally, although possessing this genetic variant can have some benefit it can also prove to have some negative consequences. Emotionally charged and intrusive type thoughts can greatly contribute to the development of serious mental health issues.

The study, published in Psychological Science, was co-authored by Adam Anderson at Cornell University.