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Women Genetically Programmed For Empathy

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Nov 20, 2009 5:23 pm US/Mountain

Women Genetically Programmed For Empathy

Reporting
Dr. Dave Hnida
DENVER (CBS4) ― If the eyes are the window to the soul, then women are better at understanding what's going on than men. Now researchers have discovered part of the reason why.

Research from the University of California-Berkley say genetics and hormones give women a distinct edge in being able to instinctively assess how someone is feeling and offer support and encouragement if warranted.

The study found there are chemical and hormonal factors that may be responsible for women being more empathetic than men. One of the hormones involved is oxytocin, a chemical which is important during pregnancy.

Even more, it was also found that some females have chromosomal traits that are inherited that increase empathy as well, meaning women may have empathy built into their DNA.

As part of the study, researchers used a test called "Reading the Mind in Eyes" to determine which sex was better at making the instant assessment.
 

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