A study of Dutch twins has uncovered a slight association between higher intelligence and a reduced risk of psychopathology, primarily driven by common genetic factors. This means that the same genetic influences that contribute to higher intelligence also appear to protect against the development of certain mental health issues. Notably, the heritability of anxiety and negative affect—traits associated with mood disorders like depression—was found to be greatest in individuals with below-average intelligence. This study was published in the journal Behavior Genetics.