A new study has found that a mother's genes determine her children's intelligence, while a father's impact is less significant, according to the British newspaper "The Independent."
The study's results suggest that mothers are more likely to pass on intelligence genes to their children because they carry two X chromosomes, whereas men only have one X chromosome. Scientists currently believe that the genes associated with advanced cognitive functions inherited from the father may be automatically suppressed. It is suggested that a category of genes known as "imprinted genes" only functions when inherited from the mother in some cases and from the father in others, indicating that intelligence is likely one of those imprinted genes that must come from the mother.
**Larger Brains and Smaller Bodies**
Laboratory studies conducted on genetically modified mice revealed that experimental mice with an excess of maternal genes developed larger heads and brains, while their bodies remained small. Conversely, mice with an excess of paternal genes had smaller brains and larger bodies. Researchers identified the cells containing only maternal or paternal genes in six different parts of the mice's brains that control various cognitive functions, ranging from eating habits to memory.
**Language, Thinking, and Planning**
Cells with paternal genes accumulated in parts of the limbic system, which are involved in functions such as sex, food, and aggression. However, researchers did not find any paternal cells in the cerebral cortex, where more advanced cognitive functions, such as language, thinking, and planning, occur.
To rule out the possibility that these findings might not be applicable to humans, researchers in Glasgow utilized theories derived from mouse studies to examine intelligence through interviews conducted with 12,686 young individuals aged 14 to 22 annually since 1994. Despite accounting for various factors from participant education to race and socioeconomic status, researchers discovered that the best predictor of intelligence is the mother's IQ.
**Genetics vs. Environment**
Nonetheless, the research also clarifies that genetics is not the sole determinant of intelligence, as the genetic factor is limited to approximately 40-60%, while a similar percentage relates to environmental influences. It indicates that mothers play a vital role in the non-genetic aspects of intelligence, with some studies suggesting that a secure bond between mother and child is closely linked to intelligence.
**Emotional Bond with the Mother**
Researchers at the University of Washington found that a secure emotional bond between mother and child is essential for the development of certain brain areas. By analyzing the way a group of mothers connected with their children over seven years, researchers concluded that children who received emotional support and had their intellectual needs met had a hippocampus that was, on average, 10% larger by age 13 compared to children who grew up emotionally distanced from their mothers. The hippocampus is a brain region associated with memory, learning, and stress responses.
**Sense of Security**
A strong relationship with the mother is believed to provide the child with a sense of security, allowing them to explore the world and to trust their problem-solving abilities. Dedicated and attentive mothers tend to assist children with problem-solving, helping them better realize their potential.
**Role of Fathers**
There is no reason to prevent fathers from playing a significant parenting role, similar to mothers. Researchers point out that a whole range of other genetically influenced traits, such as intuition and emotions, which can be inherited from the father, are also key to unlocking a child's potential intelligence.
