Do genetics play a role in sleepwalking?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Yes, genetics can influence sleepwalking. Research shows that sleepwalking often runs in families, indicating a strong hereditary component. Individuals with a first-degree relative who sleepwalks are significantly more likely to experience it themselves, and the risk increases further when both parents have a history of sleepwalking. Specific genetic markers, including variations in the HLA gene, have also been linked to a higher likelihood of this parasomnia.

While genetics matter, sleepwalking can also be triggered by stress, sleep deprivation, fever, or underlying sleep disorders — so understanding your personal risk factors is key. If you or a loved one is experiencing sleepwalking or other unexplained symptoms, taking a free, instant, online symptom check can help you identify possible causes and guide your next steps with confidence.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/20/2026

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Explanation

Sleepwalking, also known as somnambulism, has been studied in relation to genetics. Research indicates that sleepwalking can indeed run in families, which suggests that genetics may play a role.

Family Studies: One study found that sleepwalking and night terrors often occur in families, implying that hereditary factors are involved.
Twin Studies: Another study looked at twins and found that if one twin sleepwalks, the other is more likely to sleepwalk too. This suggests a genetic link.
Genetic Co-occurrence: Some research also shows that other sleep-related issues can occur together with sleepwalking, and these may also have genetic ties.

In summary, while not everyone who sleepwalks has a family history, having relatives who sleepwalk can increase the likelihood. This points to a genetic component in the occurrence of sleepwalking. If you're experiencing sleepwalking or other sleep disturbances, you can check your symptoms to better understand what might be affecting your rest.

(References)

Kales A, Soldatos CR, Bixler EO, Ladda RL, Charney DS, Weber G, & Schweitzer PK. (1980). Hereditary factors in sleepwalking and night terrors. The British journal of psychiatry : the journal of mental science, 7426840.
Hublin C, Kaprio J, Partinen M, Heikkilä K, & Koskenvuo M. (1997). Prevalence and genetics of sleepwalking: a population- .... Neurology, 9008515.
Hublin C, Kaprio J, Partinen M, & Koskenvu M. (2001). Parasomnias: co-occurrence and genetics. Psychiatric genetics, 11525419.

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