Who Lowers Intelligence More To Children, Mothers Or Fathers?

JAKARTA - Who really plays a more role in transmitting intelligence to children, mothers or fathers? This question often arises in daily discussions. According to a number of studies, it turns out that mothers reduce intelligence to children.

For a long time scientists have known intelligence is influenced by genetic factors. However, research suggests children are more likely to inherit intelligence from mothers. The reason is that the intelligence gene is widely found in X chromosomes.

"Because women have two X-chromodynamics, they have a greater chance of downgrading intelligence-related genes," said Robert Lehrke, a genetic researcher who has researched the role of X-chromodynamics in cognitive capabilities, quoted from the Psychology Spot page.

A study at the University of Cambridge found interesting differences. When researchers observed rat embryos dominated by mother's genes, these animals developed with a larger brain but a smaller body. On the other hand, embryos with the dominance of the father's genes actually have a bigger body but a smaller brain.

This finding is reinforced by brain analysis. Cells with maternal genes are found in cerebral cortex, namely parts of the brain related to intelligence, language, and thinking ability. While cells with father's genes are mostly in the limbic system, which regulates emotions, appetite instincts, to aggressiveness.

What about humans? A major study in Scotland by the Medical Research Council Social and Public Health Sciences Unit involved more than 12 thousand teenagers.

As a result, the IQ of children is closest to their mother's IQ. The average is only about 15 points different. This means that children's intelligence is indeed more reflected in maternal intelligence.

However, genetic factors are not the only determining factor. Some studies also show emotional ties with mothers play an important role in brain development.

Research at the University of Minnesota found children who had strong relationships with their mother more persistent, not easily frustrated, and were able to solve better problems.

While research at the University of Washington shows children who have emotional support from mothers have a greater 10% hippocampus, which is part of the brain that plays a role in memory and learning.

Although studies show mothers lower the genetic factor of intelligence more, that doesn't mean father's role can be ignored. Experts estimate 40' 60% of intelligence is influenced by genetics, while the rest comes from the environment, stimulation, and life experiences.

In other words, intelligence is not only about the gene heritage of mothers, but also how parents, both mothers and fathers support the growth and development of their children on a daily basis.