1.1.1 Biological explanation for relationship formation Flashcards
What does evolutionary theory propose about relationships
Relationships form with individuals who posses certain traits
How do traits that enhance sexual reproduction occur
Natural selection
What traits do men look for in women
- Smooth skin
- Glossy hair
- Red lips
- Thin waist
What are these traits indicators of for men
Youthfulness and healthiness and add up to what we see as ‘physical attractivness’
What traits do women look for in men
- Signs of fertility
- Healthiness
- Able to find resources needed for offspring to be able to survive (money, intelligence, strength etc)
What theory did Trivers devise
Parental investment theory
What does parental investment theory offer an explanation for
- Why certain relationships are formed
- For example between younger women and older men
What is the cause of Younger women being with older men according to the parental investment theory
As female mammals invest more in their offspring (they carry the baby) they must be choosier in choosing a partner so they will seek out a male that can provide the most resources
How may chemicals in our brain effect relationship formation
They have a powerful effect on our emotions, and in turn will influence our perception of others, including those we enter relationships with
Give an example of realtionship formation for dopamine
- Dopamine is associated with pleasure seeking and reward driven behaviour
- So setting the goal of finding a partner, and being driven to achieve this, will give us a hit of dopamine
- This explains why we are driven to form relationships as it gives us a natural high
Explain Oxytocin’s place in relationship formation
- It is a hormone linked to human bonding and increasing trust and loyalty
- High levels are linked to romantic attachment
- We have a natural chemical drive to bond with others
What will lack of physical contact with ones partner cause
Reduce levels of oxytocin, leading to feelings of longing to bond with ones partner again
What is Kin selection
Traits that enhance the survival of those who have similar genes are also selected to promote the survival of our groups genes
What does kin selection mean
We have a natural incentive to look after our siblings, and to invest time, energy and other resources into ensuring they are protected and healthy
