Your closest friends might have more in common with you than just hobbies, personality quirks, or favorite foods—they could actually share parts of your DNA.
Researchers at Stanford and other leading institutions have found that friends tend to be more genetically similar to each other than to strangers. And this similarity isn’t just random—it’s likely because we’re subconsciously drawn to people with traits that mirror our own, right down to the genetic level.
This phenomenon, known as social homophily, suggests that biology may subtly influence who we form bonds with. These genetically-aligned social circles might even play a role in shaping major life outcomes—impacting everything from academic performance and career choices to physical health and emotional resilience.
In short, your tribe might not just feel like family—they could be connected to you more deeply than you ever imagined.