The age-old nature versus nurture debate still lingers, but over the past few decades, various genetic studies have tried to show that genes have a significant role in shaping a person’s career. Genetic codes can influence a range of factors related to people’s career trajectory, from educational achievement to career choices and income, thus affecting their chances of attaining success in the workplace.
According to Professor Kathryn Paige Harden, a renowned developmental psychologist at the University of Texas at Austin, genes can play a crucial role in influencing our successes and failures. In her book, The Genetic Lottery: Why DNA Matters for Social Equality, Professor Harden argues that genetic differences, or what she calls “genetic luck,” can affect outcomes in life and contribute to social inequalities.
While many are quick to attribute success to individual hard work and effort, genetic factors often play an overlooked role. Professor Harden contends that even if two individuals work equally hard, their genetic differences can result in very different outcomes. For example, certain genetic variants can make it easier for some individuals to learn and comprehend complex information, giving them a competitive edge in educational attainment and greater social mobility. Similarly, genetic predispositions can affect someone’s personality, motivation, and decision-making skills, influencing their career advancement and ultimate success.
Genes and Educational Outcomes
There are numerous studies examining the genetic correlation on educational success. Researchers at Duke University School of Medicine conducted a longitudinal study that followed over a thousand participants from childhood to adulthood. The study found that genetic variations play a vital role in predicting educational achievement, and that individual differences in genes contribute to variability in academic achievement. Additionally, twin studies and the Twins Early Development Study have suggested that genetic differences account for 60-70% of the variation in academic achievement across the population.
One of the most significant breakthroughs in this field is the development of polygenic scores, which summarizes the estimated effect of various genetic variants on the individual. Such scores have been used to study genomic associations with several personal characteristics, including education, socioeconomic status and cognitive ability. According to one study, a 1% increase in polygenic score is associated with a 0.3% higher level of education attainment and a 1.4% increase in a person’s odds of being in a higher socioeconomic status (SES) bracket.
Genes and Career Outcomes
Aside from education, which affects the starting point of one’s career, genetic influences have also been linked to success in the workplace. A study by Daniel Belsky at Duke University reported an association between specific genetic profiles and a person’s occupational status, where he identified a combination of genetic polymorphisms that predicted job prestige, status, and income. In another study of non-identical twins, it was found that genetic factors account for 50% of the variance in occupational status, with the other remaining half attributed to environmental influences.
Our DNA also influence our innate tendencies and personality traits, including our academic pursuits and career options. For instance, certain genes have been linked to a higher likelihood of pursuing careers in fields such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). On the other hand, individuals with other genetic variations may be predisposed to careers that require high levels of creativity or social skills.
Environmental Factors and Psychological Traits
It is important to note that genetics and environment are correlated, as individuals from better-off families tend to have better access to educational opportunities and resources, giving them an advantage in pursuing their desired career paths. However, genetic factors can still predict adult economic outcomes even after accounting for educational attainments.
We should also bear in mind that genetics alone do not determine success. Psychological traits such as confidence, motivation, and resilience play a vital role in shaping an individual’s success in life. While these traits may have strong genetic underpinnings, their expression and development can be impacted by environmental factors such as access to resources, social support and life experiences. By taking into account both nature and nurture, we can better understand the key to success and create greater opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their genetic makeup.
In conclusion, genetic influences do play a part in determining one’s success in the workplace. While there is no denying that genetics have a huge impact on life outcomes in general, acknowledging the interplay between genes, environmental factors and psychological traits can help individuals better understand themselves and their potential. By making the right career decisions, identifying specific areas for targeted training and development and taking steps to improve the environmental factors affecting us, we can thrive in the workplace and achieve greater career success.