Practice question

Random mating ensures genotype frequencies follow Hardy-Weinberg proportions p squared, two pq, q squared derived solely from allele frequencies. Nonrandom mating, including inbreeding or positive assortative mating based on phenotype, alters probability that similar genotypes pair, shifting genotype proportions while allele frequencies remain fundamentally unchanged in absence of other forces. For instance, consanguinity increases homozygosity at expense of heterozygosity. Therefore nonrandom mating primarily impacts genotype frequencies, causing apparent deviation from Hardy-Weinberg expectations, but does not systematically change p and q unless coupled with selection or drift.