3.1: The evolutionary explanation for partner preferences

Question 1

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks)

Answer 1

Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool

Question 2

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks).
Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool.
Darwin’s theory of sexual selection

Answer 2

Darwin’s theory of sexual selection explains the evolution of characteristics that provide a reproductive advantage, focusing on two key ideas - intersexual selection and intrasexual selection

Question 3

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks).
Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool.
Darwin’s theory of sexual selection explains the evolution of characteristics that provide a reproductive advantage, focusing on two key ideas - intersexual selection and intrasexual selection.
Intersexual selection

Answer 3

Intersexual selection is the evolution of preferences for certain characteristics/qualities within members of the same sex

Question 4

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks).
Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool.
Darwin’s theory of sexual selection explains the evolution of characteristics that provide a reproductive advantage, focusing on two key ideas - intersexual selection and intrasexual selection.
Intersexual selection is the evolution of preferences for certain characteristics/qualities within members of the same sex.
Example

Answer 4

For example, all females evolving to prefer tall and muscular men

Question 5

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks).
Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool.
Darwin’s theory of sexual selection explains the evolution of characteristics that provide a reproductive advantage, focusing on two key ideas - intersexual selection and intrasexual selection.
Intersexual selection is the evolution of preferences for certain characteristics/qualities within members of the same sex.
For example, all females evolving to prefer tall and muscular men.
Intrasexual selection

Answer 5

Intrasexual selection is where members of the same sex (usually males) compete with one another to attract members of the opposite sex (usually females)

Question 6

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks).
Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool.
Darwin’s theory of sexual selection explains the evolution of characteristics that provide a reproductive advantage, focusing on two key ideas - intersexual selection and intrasexual selection.
Intersexual selection is the evolution of preferences for certain characteristics/qualities within members of the same sex.
For example, all females evolving to prefer tall and muscular men.
Intrasexual selection is where members of the same sex (usually males) compete with one another to attract members of the opposite sex (usually females).
Example

Answer 6

For example, males competing against one another to attract a female

Question 7

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks).
Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool.
Darwin’s theory of sexual selection explains the evolution of characteristics that provide a reproductive advantage, focusing on two key ideas - intersexual selection and intrasexual selection.
Intersexual selection is the evolution of preferences for certain characteristics/qualities within members of the same sex.
For example, all females evolving to prefer tall and muscular men.
Intrasexual selection is where members of the same sex (usually males) compete with one another to attract members of the opposite sex (usually females).
For example, males competing against one another to attract a female.
What does this lead to?

Answer 7

This leads to male-female dimorphism

Question 8

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks).
Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool.
Darwin’s theory of sexual selection explains the evolution of characteristics that provide a reproductive advantage, focusing on two key ideas - intersexual selection and intrasexual selection.
Intersexual selection is the evolution of preferences for certain characteristics/qualities within members of the same sex.
For example, all females evolving to prefer tall and muscular men.
Intrasexual selection is where members of the same sex (usually males) compete with one another to attract members of the opposite sex (usually females).
For example, males competing against one another to attract a female.
This leads to male-female dimorphism, which is what?

Answer 8

This leads to male-female dimorphism, which is accentuation of secondary sexual characteristics in those with greater reproductive fitness

Question 9

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks).
Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool.
Darwin’s theory of sexual selection explains the evolution of characteristics that provide a reproductive advantage, focusing on two key ideas - intersexual selection and intrasexual selection.
Intersexual selection is the evolution of preferences for certain characteristics/qualities within members of the same sex.
For example, all females evolving to prefer tall and muscular men.
Intrasexual selection is where members of the same sex (usually males) compete with one another to attract members of the opposite sex (usually females).
For example, males competing against one another to attract a female.
This leads to male-female dimorphism, which is accentuation of secondary sexual characteristics in those with greater reproductive fitness.

Both males and females

Answer 9

Both males and females have evolved with different preferences

Question 10

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks).
Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool.
Darwin’s theory of sexual selection explains the evolution of characteristics that provide a reproductive advantage, focusing on two key ideas - intersexual selection and intrasexual selection.
Intersexual selection is the evolution of preferences for certain characteristics/qualities within members of the same sex.
For example, all females evolving to prefer tall and muscular men.
Intrasexual selection is where members of the same sex (usually males) compete with one another to attract members of the opposite sex (usually females).
For example, males competing against one another to attract a female.
This leads to male-female dimorphism, which is accentuation of secondary sexual characteristics in those with greater reproductive fitness.

Both males and females have evolved with different preferences.
Example

Answer 10

For example, males are attracted to females who ‘display’ signs of fertility and good health and are more likely to demonstrate promiscuous behaviours

Question 11

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks).
Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool.
Darwin’s theory of sexual selection explains the evolution of characteristics that provide a reproductive advantage, focusing on two key ideas - intersexual selection and intrasexual selection.
Intersexual selection is the evolution of preferences for certain characteristics/qualities within members of the same sex.
For example, all females evolving to prefer tall and muscular men.
Intrasexual selection is where members of the same sex (usually males) compete with one another to attract members of the opposite sex (usually females).
For example, males competing against one another to attract a female.
This leads to male-female dimorphism, which is accentuation of secondary sexual characteristics in those with greater reproductive fitness.

Both males and females have evolved with different preferences.
For example, males are attracted to females who ‘display’ signs of fertility and good health and are more likely to demonstrate promiscuous behaviours.
Why is this?

Answer 11

This is because it is advantageous for males to mate as often as possible to enhance their reproductive success

Question 12

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks).
Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool.
Darwin’s theory of sexual selection explains the evolution of characteristics that provide a reproductive advantage, focusing on two key ideas - intersexual selection and intrasexual selection.
Intersexual selection is the evolution of preferences for certain characteristics/qualities within members of the same sex.
For example, all females evolving to prefer tall and muscular men.
Intrasexual selection is where members of the same sex (usually males) compete with one another to attract members of the opposite sex (usually females).
For example, males competing against one another to attract a female.
This leads to male-female dimorphism, which is accentuation of secondary sexual characteristics in those with greater reproductive fitness.

Both males and females have evolved with different preferences.
For example, males are attracted to females who ‘display’ signs of fertility and good health and are more likely to demonstrate promiscuous behaviours.
This is because it is advantageous for males to mate as often as possible to enhance their reproductive success.
Females, however,

Answer 12

Females, however, are attracted to males who can physically protect them and their offspring and have the ability to provide/invest resources in their potential offspring

Question 13

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks).
Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool.
Darwin’s theory of sexual selection explains the evolution of characteristics that provide a reproductive advantage, focusing on two key ideas - intersexual selection and intrasexual selection.
Intersexual selection is the evolution of preferences for certain characteristics/qualities within members of the same sex.
For example, all females evolving to prefer tall and muscular men.
Intrasexual selection is where members of the same sex (usually males) compete with one another to attract members of the opposite sex (usually females).
For example, males competing against one another to attract a female.
This leads to male-female dimorphism, which is accentuation of secondary sexual characteristics in those with greater reproductive fitness.

Both males and females have evolved with different preferences.
For example, males are attracted to females who ‘display’ signs of fertility and good health and are more likely to demonstrate promiscuous behaviours.
This is because it is advantageous for males to mate as often as possible to enhance their reproductive success.
Females, however, are attracted to males who can physically protect them and their offspring and have the ability to provide/invest resources in their potential offspring.
Therefore,

Answer 13

Therefore, females are more likely to demonstrate selective or choosy behaviours in an attempt to find the most suitable male for them and their potential offspring

Question 14

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks).
Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool.
Darwin’s theory of sexual selection explains the evolution of characteristics that provide a reproductive advantage, focusing on two key ideas - intersexual selection and intrasexual selection.
Intersexual selection is the evolution of preferences for certain characteristics/qualities within members of the same sex.
For example, all females evolving to prefer tall and muscular men.
Intrasexual selection is where members of the same sex (usually males) compete with one another to attract members of the opposite sex (usually females).
For example, males competing against one another to attract a female.
This leads to male-female dimorphism, which is accentuation of secondary sexual characteristics in those with greater reproductive fitness.

Both males and females have evolved with different preferences.
For example, males are attracted to females who ‘display’ signs of fertility and good health and are more likely to demonstrate promiscuous behaviours.
This is because it is advantageous for males to mate as often as possible to enhance their reproductive success.
Females, however, are attracted to males who can physically protect them and their offspring and have the ability to provide/invest resources in their potential offspring.
Therefore, females are more likely to demonstrate selective or choosy behaviours in an attempt to find the most suitable male for them and their potential offspring.

First AO3 PEEL paragraph

Answer 14

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for intersexual selection

Question 15

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks).
Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool.
Darwin’s theory of sexual selection explains the evolution of characteristics that provide a reproductive advantage, focusing on two key ideas - intersexual selection and intrasexual selection.
Intersexual selection is the evolution of preferences for certain characteristics/qualities within members of the same sex.
For example, all females evolving to prefer tall and muscular men.
Intrasexual selection is where members of the same sex (usually males) compete with one another to attract members of the opposite sex (usually females).
For example, males competing against one another to attract a female.
This leads to male-female dimorphism, which is accentuation of secondary sexual characteristics in those with greater reproductive fitness.

Both males and females have evolved with different preferences.
For example, males are attracted to females who ‘display’ signs of fertility and good health and are more likely to demonstrate promiscuous behaviours.
This is because it is advantageous for males to mate as often as possible to enhance their reproductive success.
Females, however, are attracted to males who can physically protect them and their offspring and have the ability to provide/invest resources in their potential offspring.
Therefore, females are more likely to demonstrate selective or choosy behaviours in an attempt to find the most suitable male for them and their potential offspring.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for intersexual selection.
Example

Answer 15

For example, Clarke and Hatfield conducted research where confederates were instructed to approach both male and female students on a university campus and ask one of three questions.
The most pertinent question in the research was ‘I find you very attractive, would you go to bed with me?’
Clarke and Hatfield found that 75% of males were willing to have sex with a stranger, whereas no females were

Question 16

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks).
Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool.
Darwin’s theory of sexual selection explains the evolution of characteristics that provide a reproductive advantage, focusing on two key ideas - intersexual selection and intrasexual selection.
Intersexual selection is the evolution of preferences for certain characteristics/qualities within members of the same sex.
For example, all females evolving to prefer tall and muscular men.
Intrasexual selection is where members of the same sex (usually males) compete with one another to attract members of the opposite sex (usually females).
For example, males competing against one another to attract a female.
This leads to male-female dimorphism, which is accentuation of secondary sexual characteristics in those with greater reproductive fitness.

Both males and females have evolved with different preferences.
For example, males are attracted to females who ‘display’ signs of fertility and good health and are more likely to demonstrate promiscuous behaviours.
This is because it is advantageous for males to mate as often as possible to enhance their reproductive success.
Females, however, are attracted to males who can physically protect them and their offspring and have the ability to provide/invest resources in their potential offspring.
Therefore, females are more likely to demonstrate selective or choosy behaviours in an attempt to find the most suitable male for them and their potential offspring.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for intersexual selection.
For example, Clarke and Hatfield conducted research where confederates were instructed to approach both male and female students on a university campus and ask one of three questions.
The most pertinent question in the research was ‘I find you very attractive, would you go to bed with me?’
Clarke and Hatfield found that 75% of males were willing to have sex with a stranger, whereas no females were.
Why does this support the evolutionary theory?

Answer 16

This supports the evolutionary theory, because it suggests that females are more selective when choosing a sexual partner, whereas males use a different strategy in order to enhance their reproductive success

Question 17

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks).
Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool.
Darwin’s theory of sexual selection explains the evolution of characteristics that provide a reproductive advantage, focusing on two key ideas - intersexual selection and intrasexual selection.
Intersexual selection is the evolution of preferences for certain characteristics/qualities within members of the same sex.
For example, all females evolving to prefer tall and muscular men.
Intrasexual selection is where members of the same sex (usually males) compete with one another to attract members of the opposite sex (usually females).
For example, males competing against one another to attract a female.
This leads to male-female dimorphism, which is accentuation of secondary sexual characteristics in those with greater reproductive fitness.

Both males and females have evolved with different preferences.
For example, males are attracted to females who ‘display’ signs of fertility and good health and are more likely to demonstrate promiscuous behaviours.
This is because it is advantageous for males to mate as often as possible to enhance their reproductive success.
Females, however, are attracted to males who can physically protect them and their offspring and have the ability to provide/invest resources in their potential offspring.
Therefore, females are more likely to demonstrate selective or choosy behaviours in an attempt to find the most suitable male for them and their potential offspring.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for intersexual selection.
For example, Clarke and Hatfield conducted research where confederates were instructed to approach both male and female students on a university campus and ask one of three questions.
The most pertinent question in the research was ‘I find you very attractive, would you go to bed with me?’
Clarke and Hatfield found that 75% of males were willing to have sex with a stranger, whereas no females were.
This supports the evolutionary theory, because it suggests that females are more selective when choosing a sexual partner, whereas males use a different strategy in order to enhance their reproductive success.

Second AO3 PEEL paragraph

Answer 17

The second AO3 PEEL paragraph is that However, partner preferences over the past century have undoubtedly been influenced by rapidly changing social norms of sexual behaviour

Question 18

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks).
Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool.
Darwin’s theory of sexual selection explains the evolution of characteristics that provide a reproductive advantage, focusing on two key ideas - intersexual selection and intrasexual selection.
Intersexual selection is the evolution of preferences for certain characteristics/qualities within members of the same sex.
For example, all females evolving to prefer tall and muscular men.
Intrasexual selection is where members of the same sex (usually males) compete with one another to attract members of the opposite sex (usually females).
For example, males competing against one another to attract a female.
This leads to male-female dimorphism, which is accentuation of secondary sexual characteristics in those with greater reproductive fitness.

Both males and females have evolved with different preferences.
For example, males are attracted to females who ‘display’ signs of fertility and good health and are more likely to demonstrate promiscuous behaviours.
This is because it is advantageous for males to mate as often as possible to enhance their reproductive success.
Females, however, are attracted to males who can physically protect them and their offspring and have the ability to provide/invest resources in their potential offspring.
Therefore, females are more likely to demonstrate selective or choosy behaviours in an attempt to find the most suitable male for them and their potential offspring.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for intersexual selection.
For example, Clarke and Hatfield conducted research where confederates were instructed to approach both male and female students on a university campus and ask one of three questions.
The most pertinent question in the research was ‘I find you very attractive, would you go to bed with me?’
Clarke and Hatfield found that 75% of males were willing to have sex with a stranger, whereas no females were.
This supports the evolutionary theory, because it suggests that females are more selective when choosing a sexual partner, whereas males use a different strategy in order to enhance their reproductive success.

The second AO3 PEEL paragraph is that However, partner preferences over the past century have undoubtedly been influenced by rapidly changing social norms of sexual behaviour.
These

Answer 18

These develop much faster than evolutionary timescales imply and have instead come about due to cultural factors such as the availability of contraception

Question 19

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks).
Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool.
Darwin’s theory of sexual selection explains the evolution of characteristics that provide a reproductive advantage, focusing on two key ideas - intersexual selection and intrasexual selection.
Intersexual selection is the evolution of preferences for certain characteristics/qualities within members of the same sex.
For example, all females evolving to prefer tall and muscular men.
Intrasexual selection is where members of the same sex (usually males) compete with one another to attract members of the opposite sex (usually females).
For example, males competing against one another to attract a female.
This leads to male-female dimorphism, which is accentuation of secondary sexual characteristics in those with greater reproductive fitness.

Both males and females have evolved with different preferences.
For example, males are attracted to females who ‘display’ signs of fertility and good health and are more likely to demonstrate promiscuous behaviours.
This is because it is advantageous for males to mate as often as possible to enhance their reproductive success.
Females, however, are attracted to males who can physically protect them and their offspring and have the ability to provide/invest resources in their potential offspring.
Therefore, females are more likely to demonstrate selective or choosy behaviours in an attempt to find the most suitable male for them and their potential offspring.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for intersexual selection.
For example, Clarke and Hatfield conducted research where confederates were instructed to approach both male and female students on a university campus and ask one of three questions.
The most pertinent question in the research was ‘I find you very attractive, would you go to bed with me?’
Clarke and Hatfield found that 75% of males were willing to have sex with a stranger, whereas no females were.
This supports the evolutionary theory, because it suggests that females are more selective when choosing a sexual partner, whereas males use a different strategy in order to enhance their reproductive success.

The second AO3 PEEL paragraph is that However, partner preferences over the past century have undoubtedly been influenced by rapidly changing social norms of sexual behaviour.
These develop much faster than evolutionary timescales imply and have instead come about due to cultural factors such as the availability of contraception.
Women’s greater role in the workplace

Answer 19

Women’s greater role in the workplace means that they are no longer dependent on men to provide to them (despite the ongoing inequality in earning power)

Question 20

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks).
Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool.
Darwin’s theory of sexual selection explains the evolution of characteristics that provide a reproductive advantage, focusing on two key ideas - intersexual selection and intrasexual selection.
Intersexual selection is the evolution of preferences for certain characteristics/qualities within members of the same sex.
For example, all females evolving to prefer tall and muscular men.
Intrasexual selection is where members of the same sex (usually males) compete with one another to attract members of the opposite sex (usually females).
For example, males competing against one another to attract a female.
This leads to male-female dimorphism, which is accentuation of secondary sexual characteristics in those with greater reproductive fitness.

Both males and females have evolved with different preferences.
For example, males are attracted to females who ‘display’ signs of fertility and good health and are more likely to demonstrate promiscuous behaviours.
This is because it is advantageous for males to mate as often as possible to enhance their reproductive success.
Females, however, are attracted to males who can physically protect them and their offspring and have the ability to provide/invest resources in their potential offspring.
Therefore, females are more likely to demonstrate selective or choosy behaviours in an attempt to find the most suitable male for them and their potential offspring.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for intersexual selection.
For example, Clarke and Hatfield conducted research where confederates were instructed to approach both male and female students on a university campus and ask one of three questions.
The most pertinent question in the research was ‘I find you very attractive, would you go to bed with me?’
Clarke and Hatfield found that 75% of males were willing to have sex with a stranger, whereas no females were.
This supports the evolutionary theory, because it suggests that females are more selective when choosing a sexual partner, whereas males use a different strategy in order to enhance their reproductive success.

The second AO3 PEEL paragraph is that However, partner preferences over the past century have undoubtedly been influenced by rapidly changing social norms of sexual behaviour.
These develop much faster than evolutionary timescales imply and have instead come about due to cultural factors such as the availability of contraception.
Women’s greater role in the workplace means that they are no longer dependent on men to provide to them (despite the ongoing inequality in earning power).
Who is this supported by?

Answer 20

This is supported by Bereczkei et al. (1997), who argue that women now look for men who are family-orientated and not resource-orientated

Question 21

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks).
Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool.
Darwin’s theory of sexual selection explains the evolution of characteristics that provide a reproductive advantage, focusing on two key ideas - intersexual selection and intrasexual selection.
Intersexual selection is the evolution of preferences for certain characteristics/qualities within members of the same sex.
For example, all females evolving to prefer tall and muscular men.
Intrasexual selection is where members of the same sex (usually males) compete with one another to attract members of the opposite sex (usually females).
For example, males competing against one another to attract a female.
This leads to male-female dimorphism, which is accentuation of secondary sexual characteristics in those with greater reproductive fitness.

Both males and females have evolved with different preferences.
For example, males are attracted to females who ‘display’ signs of fertility and good health and are more likely to demonstrate promiscuous behaviours.
This is because it is advantageous for males to mate as often as possible to enhance their reproductive success.
Females, however, are attracted to males who can physically protect them and their offspring and have the ability to provide/invest resources in their potential offspring.
Therefore, females are more likely to demonstrate selective or choosy behaviours in an attempt to find the most suitable male for them and their potential offspring.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for intersexual selection.
For example, Clarke and Hatfield conducted research where confederates were instructed to approach both male and female students on a university campus and ask one of three questions.
The most pertinent question in the research was ‘I find you very attractive, would you go to bed with me?’
Clarke and Hatfield found that 75% of males were willing to have sex with a stranger, whereas no females were.
This supports the evolutionary theory, because it suggests that females are more selective when choosing a sexual partner, whereas males use a different strategy in order to enhance their reproductive success.

The second AO3 PEEL paragraph is that However, partner preferences over the past century have undoubtedly been influenced by rapidly changing social norms of sexual behaviour.
These develop much faster than evolutionary timescales imply and have instead come about due to cultural factors such as the availability of contraception.
Women’s greater role in the workplace means that they are no longer dependent on men to provide to them (despite the ongoing inequality in earning power).
This is supported by Bereczkei et al. (1997), who argue that women now look for men who are family-orientated and not resource-orientated.
What does this show?

Answer 21

This shows that evolutionary theories do not fully take into account the social factors involved in partner preferences and therefore ignore the role of nurture in partner preferences

Question 22

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks).
Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool.
Darwin’s theory of sexual selection explains the evolution of characteristics that provide a reproductive advantage, focusing on two key ideas - intersexual selection and intrasexual selection.
Intersexual selection is the evolution of preferences for certain characteristics/qualities within members of the same sex.
For example, all females evolving to prefer tall and muscular men.
Intrasexual selection is where members of the same sex (usually males) compete with one another to attract members of the opposite sex (usually females).
For example, males competing against one another to attract a female.
This leads to male-female dimorphism, which is accentuation of secondary sexual characteristics in those with greater reproductive fitness.

Both males and females have evolved with different preferences.
For example, males are attracted to females who ‘display’ signs of fertility and good health and are more likely to demonstrate promiscuous behaviours.
This is because it is advantageous for males to mate as often as possible to enhance their reproductive success.
Females, however, are attracted to males who can physically protect them and their offspring and have the ability to provide/invest resources in their potential offspring.
Therefore, females are more likely to demonstrate selective or choosy behaviours in an attempt to find the most suitable male for them and their potential offspring.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for intersexual selection.
For example, Clarke and Hatfield conducted research where confederates were instructed to approach both male and female students on a university campus and ask one of three questions.
The most pertinent question in the research was ‘I find you very attractive, would you go to bed with me?’
Clarke and Hatfield found that 75% of males were willing to have sex with a stranger, whereas no females were.
This supports the evolutionary theory, because it suggests that females are more selective when choosing a sexual partner, whereas males use a different strategy in order to enhance their reproductive success.

The second AO3 PEEL paragraph is that However, partner preferences over the past century have undoubtedly been influenced by rapidly changing social norms of sexual behaviour.
These develop much faster than evolutionary timescales imply and have instead come about due to cultural factors such as the availability of contraception.
Women’s greater role in the workplace means that they are no longer dependent on men to provide to them (despite the ongoing inequality in earning power).
This is supported by Bereczkei et al. (1997), who argue that women now look for men who are family-orientated and not resource-orientated.
This shows that evolutionary theories do not fully take into account the social factors involved in partner preferences and therefore ignore the role of nurture in partner preferences.
For example

Answer 22

For example, Levinger et al. (1970) found that women value resources more in cultures where their status and educational opportunities are limited

Question 23

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks).
Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool.
Darwin’s theory of sexual selection explains the evolution of characteristics that provide a reproductive advantage, focusing on two key ideas - intersexual selection and intrasexual selection.
Intersexual selection is the evolution of preferences for certain characteristics/qualities within members of the same sex.
For example, all females evolving to prefer tall and muscular men.
Intrasexual selection is where members of the same sex (usually males) compete with one another to attract members of the opposite sex (usually females).
For example, males competing against one another to attract a female.
This leads to male-female dimorphism, which is accentuation of secondary sexual characteristics in those with greater reproductive fitness.

Both males and females have evolved with different preferences.
For example, males are attracted to females who ‘display’ signs of fertility and good health and are more likely to demonstrate promiscuous behaviours.
This is because it is advantageous for males to mate as often as possible to enhance their reproductive success.
Females, however, are attracted to males who can physically protect them and their offspring and have the ability to provide/invest resources in their potential offspring.
Therefore, females are more likely to demonstrate selective or choosy behaviours in an attempt to find the most suitable male for them and their potential offspring.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for intersexual selection.
For example, Clarke and Hatfield conducted research where confederates were instructed to approach both male and female students on a university campus and ask one of three questions.
The most pertinent question in the research was ‘I find you very attractive, would you go to bed with me?’
Clarke and Hatfield found that 75% of males were willing to have sex with a stranger, whereas no females were.
This supports the evolutionary theory, because it suggests that females are more selective when choosing a sexual partner, whereas males use a different strategy in order to enhance their reproductive success.

The second AO3 PEEL paragraph is that However, partner preferences over the past century have undoubtedly been influenced by rapidly changing social norms of sexual behaviour.
These develop much faster than evolutionary timescales imply and have instead come about due to cultural factors such as the availability of contraception.
Women’s greater role in the workplace means that they are no longer dependent on men to provide to them (despite the ongoing inequality in earning power).
This is supported by Bereczkei et al. (1997), who argue that women now look for men who are family-orientated and not resource-orientated.
This shows that evolutionary theories do not fully take into account the social factors involved in partner preferences and therefore ignore the role of nurture in partner preferences.
For example, Levinger et al. (1970) found that women value resources more in cultures where their status and educational opportunities are limited.
What does this show?

Answer 23

This shows that evolutionary explanations do not necessarily account for all partner preferences in 2020

Question 24

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks).
Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool.
Darwin’s theory of sexual selection explains the evolution of characteristics that provide a reproductive advantage, focusing on two key ideas - intersexual selection and intrasexual selection.
Intersexual selection is the evolution of preferences for certain characteristics/qualities within members of the same sex.
For example, all females evolving to prefer tall and muscular men.
Intrasexual selection is where members of the same sex (usually males) compete with one another to attract members of the opposite sex (usually females).
For example, males competing against one another to attract a female.
This leads to male-female dimorphism, which is accentuation of secondary sexual characteristics in those with greater reproductive fitness.

Both males and females have evolved with different preferences.
For example, males are attracted to females who ‘display’ signs of fertility and good health and are more likely to demonstrate promiscuous behaviours.
This is because it is advantageous for males to mate as often as possible to enhance their reproductive success.
Females, however, are attracted to males who can physically protect them and their offspring and have the ability to provide/invest resources in their potential offspring.
Therefore, females are more likely to demonstrate selective or choosy behaviours in an attempt to find the most suitable male for them and their potential offspring.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for intersexual selection.
For example, Clarke and Hatfield conducted research where confederates were instructed to approach both male and female students on a university campus and ask one of three questions.
The most pertinent question in the research was ‘I find you very attractive, would you go to bed with me?’
Clarke and Hatfield found that 75% of males were willing to have sex with a stranger, whereas no females were.
This supports the evolutionary theory, because it suggests that females are more selective when choosing a sexual partner, whereas males use a different strategy in order to enhance their reproductive success.

The second AO3 PEEL paragraph is that However, partner preferences over the past century have undoubtedly been influenced by rapidly changing social norms of sexual behaviour.
These develop much faster than evolutionary timescales imply and have instead come about due to cultural factors such as the availability of contraception.
Women’s greater role in the workplace means that they are no longer dependent on men to provide to them (despite the ongoing inequality in earning power).
This is supported by Bereczkei et al. (1997), who argue that women now look for men who are family-orientated and not resource-orientated.
This shows that evolutionary theories do not fully take into account the social factors involved in partner preferences and therefore ignore the role of nurture in partner preferences.
For example, Levinger et al. (1970) found that women value resources more in cultures where their status and educational opportunities are limited.
This shows that evolutionary explanations do not necessarily account for all partner preferences in 2020.

Third AO3 PEEL paragraph

Answer 24

The third AO3 PEEL paragraph is that evolutionary explanations focus on reproductive success and so are unable to explain homosexual relationships and why they exist, as they serve no reproductive value, since no children are produced

Question 25

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks).
Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool.
Darwin’s theory of sexual selection explains the evolution of characteristics that provide a reproductive advantage, focusing on two key ideas - intersexual selection and intrasexual selection.
Intersexual selection is the evolution of preferences for certain characteristics/qualities within members of the same sex.
For example, all females evolving to prefer tall and muscular men.
Intrasexual selection is where members of the same sex (usually males) compete with one another to attract members of the opposite sex (usually females).
For example, males competing against one another to attract a female.
This leads to male-female dimorphism, which is accentuation of secondary sexual characteristics in those with greater reproductive fitness.

Both males and females have evolved with different preferences.
For example, males are attracted to females who ‘display’ signs of fertility and good health and are more likely to demonstrate promiscuous behaviours.
This is because it is advantageous for males to mate as often as possible to enhance their reproductive success.
Females, however, are attracted to males who can physically protect them and their offspring and have the ability to provide/invest resources in their potential offspring.
Therefore, females are more likely to demonstrate selective or choosy behaviours in an attempt to find the most suitable male for them and their potential offspring.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for intersexual selection.
For example, Clarke and Hatfield conducted research where confederates were instructed to approach both male and female students on a university campus and ask one of three questions.
The most pertinent question in the research was ‘I find you very attractive, would you go to bed with me?’
Clarke and Hatfield found that 75% of males were willing to have sex with a stranger, whereas no females were.
This supports the evolutionary theory, because it suggests that females are more selective when choosing a sexual partner, whereas males use a different strategy in order to enhance their reproductive success.

The second AO3 PEEL paragraph is that However, partner preferences over the past century have undoubtedly been influenced by rapidly changing social norms of sexual behaviour.
These develop much faster than evolutionary timescales imply and have instead come about due to cultural factors such as the availability of contraception.
Women’s greater role in the workplace means that they are no longer dependent on men to provide to them (despite the ongoing inequality in earning power).
This is supported by Bereczkei et al. (1997), who argue that women now look for men who are family-orientated and not resource-orientated.
This shows that evolutionary theories do not fully take into account the social factors involved in partner preferences and therefore ignore the role of nurture in partner preferences.
For example, Levinger et al. (1970) found that women value resources more in cultures where their status and educational opportunities are limited.
This shows that evolutionary explanations do not necessarily account for all partner preferences in 2020.

The third AO3 PEEL paragraph is that evolutionary explanations focus on reproductive success and so are unable to explain homosexual relationships and why they exist, as they serve no reproductive value, since no children are produced.
Why does this raise serious ethical issues?

Answer 25

This raises serious ethical issues, because people may use sexual selection theory to highlight the ‘abnormality’ of homosexuality and create prejudice through homophobia

Question 26

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks).
Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool.
Darwin’s theory of sexual selection explains the evolution of characteristics that provide a reproductive advantage, focusing on two key ideas - intersexual selection and intrasexual selection.
Intersexual selection is the evolution of preferences for certain characteristics/qualities within members of the same sex.
For example, all females evolving to prefer tall and muscular men.
Intrasexual selection is where members of the same sex (usually males) compete with one another to attract members of the opposite sex (usually females).
For example, males competing against one another to attract a female.
This leads to male-female dimorphism, which is accentuation of secondary sexual characteristics in those with greater reproductive fitness.

Both males and females have evolved with different preferences.
For example, males are attracted to females who ‘display’ signs of fertility and good health and are more likely to demonstrate promiscuous behaviours.
This is because it is advantageous for males to mate as often as possible to enhance their reproductive success.
Females, however, are attracted to males who can physically protect them and their offspring and have the ability to provide/invest resources in their potential offspring.
Therefore, females are more likely to demonstrate selective or choosy behaviours in an attempt to find the most suitable male for them and their potential offspring.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for intersexual selection.
For example, Clarke and Hatfield conducted research where confederates were instructed to approach both male and female students on a university campus and ask one of three questions.
The most pertinent question in the research was ‘I find you very attractive, would you go to bed with me?’
Clarke and Hatfield found that 75% of males were willing to have sex with a stranger, whereas no females were.
This supports the evolutionary theory, because it suggests that females are more selective when choosing a sexual partner, whereas males use a different strategy in order to enhance their reproductive success.

The second AO3 PEEL paragraph is that However, partner preferences over the past century have undoubtedly been influenced by rapidly changing social norms of sexual behaviour.
These develop much faster than evolutionary timescales imply and have instead come about due to cultural factors such as the availability of contraception.
Women’s greater role in the workplace means that they are no longer dependent on men to provide to them (despite the ongoing inequality in earning power).
This is supported by Bereczkei et al. (1997), who argue that women now look for men who are family-orientated and not resource-orientated.
This shows that evolutionary theories do not fully take into account the social factors involved in partner preferences and therefore ignore the role of nurture in partner preferences.
For example, Levinger et al. (1970) found that women value resources more in cultures where their status and educational opportunities are limited.
This shows that evolutionary explanations do not necessarily account for all partner preferences in 2020.

The third AO3 PEEL paragraph is that evolutionary explanations focus on reproductive success and so are unable to explain homosexual relationships and why they exist, as they serve no reproductive value, since no children are produced.
This raises serious ethical issues, because people may use sexual selection theory to highlight the ‘abnormality’ of homosexuality and create prejudice through homophobia.
Evolutionary explanations also cannot explain what either?

Answer 26

Evolutionary explanations also cannot explain why some couples choose not to have children either

Question 27

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks).
Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool.
Darwin’s theory of sexual selection explains the evolution of characteristics that provide a reproductive advantage, focusing on two key ideas - intersexual selection and intrasexual selection.
Intersexual selection is the evolution of preferences for certain characteristics/qualities within members of the same sex.
For example, all females evolving to prefer tall and muscular men.
Intrasexual selection is where members of the same sex (usually males) compete with one another to attract members of the opposite sex (usually females).
For example, males competing against one another to attract a female.
This leads to male-female dimorphism, which is accentuation of secondary sexual characteristics in those with greater reproductive fitness.

Both males and females have evolved with different preferences.
For example, males are attracted to females who ‘display’ signs of fertility and good health and are more likely to demonstrate promiscuous behaviours.
This is because it is advantageous for males to mate as often as possible to enhance their reproductive success.
Females, however, are attracted to males who can physically protect them and their offspring and have the ability to provide/invest resources in their potential offspring.
Therefore, females are more likely to demonstrate selective or choosy behaviours in an attempt to find the most suitable male for them and their potential offspring.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for intersexual selection.
For example, Clarke and Hatfield conducted research where confederates were instructed to approach both male and female students on a university campus and ask one of three questions.
The most pertinent question in the research was ‘I find you very attractive, would you go to bed with me?’
Clarke and Hatfield found that 75% of males were willing to have sex with a stranger, whereas no females were.
This supports the evolutionary theory, because it suggests that females are more selective when choosing a sexual partner, whereas males use a different strategy in order to enhance their reproductive success.

The second AO3 PEEL paragraph is that However, partner preferences over the past century have undoubtedly been influenced by rapidly changing social norms of sexual behaviour.
These develop much faster than evolutionary timescales imply and have instead come about due to cultural factors such as the availability of contraception.
Women’s greater role in the workplace means that they are no longer dependent on men to provide to them (despite the ongoing inequality in earning power).
This is supported by Bereczkei et al. (1997), who argue that women now look for men who are family-orientated and not resource-orientated.
This shows that evolutionary theories do not fully take into account the social factors involved in partner preferences and therefore ignore the role of nurture in partner preferences.
For example, Levinger et al. (1970) found that women value resources more in cultures where their status and educational opportunities are limited.
This shows that evolutionary explanations do not necessarily account for all partner preferences in 2020.

The third AO3 PEEL paragraph is that evolutionary explanations focus on reproductive success and so are unable to explain homosexual relationships and why they exist, as they serve no reproductive value, since no children are produced.
This raises serious ethical issues, because people may use sexual selection theory to highlight the ‘abnormality’ of homosexuality and create prejudice through homophobia.
Evolutionary explanations also cannot explain why some couples choose not to have children either, why?

Answer 27

Evolutionary explanations also cannot explain why some couples choose not to have children either, because they assume that all relationships are motivated by the desire to reproduce, but people get into relationships for many reasons beyond this, too

Question 28

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks).
Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool.
Darwin’s theory of sexual selection explains the evolution of characteristics that provide a reproductive advantage, focusing on two key ideas - intersexual selection and intrasexual selection.
Intersexual selection is the evolution of preferences for certain characteristics/qualities within members of the same sex.
For example, all females evolving to prefer tall and muscular men.
Intrasexual selection is where members of the same sex (usually males) compete with one another to attract members of the opposite sex (usually females).
For example, males competing against one another to attract a female.
This leads to male-female dimorphism, which is accentuation of secondary sexual characteristics in those with greater reproductive fitness.

Both males and females have evolved with different preferences.
For example, males are attracted to females who ‘display’ signs of fertility and good health and are more likely to demonstrate promiscuous behaviours.
This is because it is advantageous for males to mate as often as possible to enhance their reproductive success.
Females, however, are attracted to males who can physically protect them and their offspring and have the ability to provide/invest resources in their potential offspring.
Therefore, females are more likely to demonstrate selective or choosy behaviours in an attempt to find the most suitable male for them and their potential offspring.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for intersexual selection.
For example, Clarke and Hatfield conducted research where confederates were instructed to approach both male and female students on a university campus and ask one of three questions.
The most pertinent question in the research was ‘I find you very attractive, would you go to bed with me?’
Clarke and Hatfield found that 75% of males were willing to have sex with a stranger, whereas no females were.
This supports the evolutionary theory, because it suggests that females are more selective when choosing a sexual partner, whereas males use a different strategy in order to enhance their reproductive success.

The second AO3 PEEL paragraph is that However, partner preferences over the past century have undoubtedly been influenced by rapidly changing social norms of sexual behaviour.
These develop much faster than evolutionary timescales imply and have instead come about due to cultural factors such as the availability of contraception.
Women’s greater role in the workplace means that they are no longer dependent on men to provide to them (despite the ongoing inequality in earning power).
This is supported by Bereczkei et al. (1997), who argue that women now look for men who are family-orientated and not resource-orientated.
This shows that evolutionary theories do not fully take into account the social factors involved in partner preferences and therefore ignore the role of nurture in partner preferences.
For example, Levinger et al. (1970) found that women value resources more in cultures where their status and educational opportunities are limited.
This shows that evolutionary explanations do not necessarily account for all partner preferences in 2020.

The third AO3 PEEL paragraph is that evolutionary explanations focus on reproductive success and so are unable to explain homosexual relationships and why they exist, as they serve no reproductive value, since no children are produced.
This raises serious ethical issues, because people may use sexual selection theory to highlight the ‘abnormality’ of homosexuality and create prejudice through homophobia.
Evolutionary explanations also cannot explain why some couples choose not to have children either, because they assume that all relationships are motivated by the desire to reproduce, but people get into relationships for many reasons beyond this, too.

Answer 28

Arranged marriages have also existed for centuries

Question 29

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks).
Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool.
Darwin’s theory of sexual selection explains the evolution of characteristics that provide a reproductive advantage, focusing on two key ideas - intersexual selection and intrasexual selection.
Intersexual selection is the evolution of preferences for certain characteristics/qualities within members of the same sex.
For example, all females evolving to prefer tall and muscular men.
Intrasexual selection is where members of the same sex (usually males) compete with one another to attract members of the opposite sex (usually females).
For example, males competing against one another to attract a female.
This leads to male-female dimorphism, which is accentuation of secondary sexual characteristics in those with greater reproductive fitness.

Both males and females have evolved with different preferences.
For example, males are attracted to females who ‘display’ signs of fertility and good health and are more likely to demonstrate promiscuous behaviours.
This is because it is advantageous for males to mate as often as possible to enhance their reproductive success.
Females, however, are attracted to males who can physically protect them and their offspring and have the ability to provide/invest resources in their potential offspring.
Therefore, females are more likely to demonstrate selective or choosy behaviours in an attempt to find the most suitable male for them and their potential offspring.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for intersexual selection.
For example, Clarke and Hatfield conducted research where confederates were instructed to approach both male and female students on a university campus and ask one of three questions.
The most pertinent question in the research was ‘I find you very attractive, would you go to bed with me?’
Clarke and Hatfield found that 75% of males were willing to have sex with a stranger, whereas no females were.
This supports the evolutionary theory, because it suggests that females are more selective when choosing a sexual partner, whereas males use a different strategy in order to enhance their reproductive success.

The second AO3 PEEL paragraph is that However, partner preferences over the past century have undoubtedly been influenced by rapidly changing social norms of sexual behaviour.
These develop much faster than evolutionary timescales imply and have instead come about due to cultural factors such as the availability of contraception.
Women’s greater role in the workplace means that they are no longer dependent on men to provide to them (despite the ongoing inequality in earning power).
This is supported by Bereczkei et al. (1997), who argue that women now look for men who are family-orientated and not resource-orientated.
This shows that evolutionary theories do not fully take into account the social factors involved in partner preferences and therefore ignore the role of nurture in partner preferences.
For example, Levinger et al. (1970) found that women value resources more in cultures where their status and educational opportunities are limited.
This shows that evolutionary explanations do not necessarily account for all partner preferences in 2020.

The third AO3 PEEL paragraph is that evolutionary explanations focus on reproductive success and so are unable to explain homosexual relationships and why they exist, as they serve no reproductive value, since no children are produced.
This raises serious ethical issues, because people may use sexual selection theory to highlight the ‘abnormality’ of homosexuality and create prejudice through homophobia.
Evolutionary explanations also cannot explain why some couples choose not to have children either, because they assume that all relationships are motivated by the desire to reproduce, but people get into relationships for many reasons beyond this, too.
Arranged marriages have also existed for centuries, yet?

Answer 29

Arranged marriages have also existed for centuries, yet such behaviour goes against the theory, as no selection between males is taking place (or very little)

Question 30

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks).
Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool.
Darwin’s theory of sexual selection explains the evolution of characteristics that provide a reproductive advantage, focusing on two key ideas - intersexual selection and intrasexual selection.
Intersexual selection is the evolution of preferences for certain characteristics/qualities within members of the same sex.
For example, all females evolving to prefer tall and muscular men.
Intrasexual selection is where members of the same sex (usually males) compete with one another to attract members of the opposite sex (usually females).
For example, males competing against one another to attract a female.
This leads to male-female dimorphism, which is accentuation of secondary sexual characteristics in those with greater reproductive fitness.

Both males and females have evolved with different preferences.
For example, males are attracted to females who ‘display’ signs of fertility and good health and are more likely to demonstrate promiscuous behaviours.
This is because it is advantageous for males to mate as often as possible to enhance their reproductive success.
Females, however, are attracted to males who can physically protect them and their offspring and have the ability to provide/invest resources in their potential offspring.
Therefore, females are more likely to demonstrate selective or choosy behaviours in an attempt to find the most suitable male for them and their potential offspring.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for intersexual selection.
For example, Clarke and Hatfield conducted research where confederates were instructed to approach both male and female students on a university campus and ask one of three questions.
The most pertinent question in the research was ‘I find you very attractive, would you go to bed with me?’
Clarke and Hatfield found that 75% of males were willing to have sex with a stranger, whereas no females were.
This supports the evolutionary theory, because it suggests that females are more selective when choosing a sexual partner, whereas males use a different strategy in order to enhance their reproductive success.

The second AO3 PEEL paragraph is that However, partner preferences over the past century have undoubtedly been influenced by rapidly changing social norms of sexual behaviour.
These develop much faster than evolutionary timescales imply and have instead come about due to cultural factors such as the availability of contraception.
Women’s greater role in the workplace means that they are no longer dependent on men to provide to them (despite the ongoing inequality in earning power).
This is supported by Bereczkei et al. (1997), who argue that women now look for men who are family-orientated and not resource-orientated.
This shows that evolutionary theories do not fully take into account the social factors involved in partner preferences and therefore ignore the role of nurture in partner preferences.
For example, Levinger et al. (1970) found that women value resources more in cultures where their status and educational opportunities are limited.
This shows that evolutionary explanations do not necessarily account for all partner preferences in 2020.

The third AO3 PEEL paragraph is that evolutionary explanations focus on reproductive success and so are unable to explain homosexual relationships and why they exist, as they serve no reproductive value, since no children are produced.
This raises serious ethical issues, because people may use sexual selection theory to highlight the ‘abnormality’ of homosexuality and create prejudice through homophobia.
Evolutionary explanations also cannot explain why some couples choose not to have children either, because they assume that all relationships are motivated by the desire to reproduce, but people get into relationships for many reasons beyond this, too.
Arranged marriages have also existed for centuries, yet such behaviour goes against the theory, as no selection between males is taking place (or very little).
What does also show?

Answer 30

This also shows how cultural factors also play a role in human reproduction which undermines evolutionary explanations

Question 31

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks).
Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool.
Darwin’s theory of sexual selection explains the evolution of characteristics that provide a reproductive advantage, focusing on two key ideas - intersexual selection and intrasexual selection.
Intersexual selection is the evolution of preferences for certain characteristics/qualities within members of the same sex.
For example, all females evolving to prefer tall and muscular men.
Intrasexual selection is where members of the same sex (usually males) compete with one another to attract members of the opposite sex (usually females).
For example, males competing against one another to attract a female.
This leads to male-female dimorphism, which is accentuation of secondary sexual characteristics in those with greater reproductive fitness.

Both males and females have evolved with different preferences.
For example, males are attracted to females who ‘display’ signs of fertility and good health and are more likely to demonstrate promiscuous behaviours.
This is because it is advantageous for males to mate as often as possible to enhance their reproductive success.
Females, however, are attracted to males who can physically protect them and their offspring and have the ability to provide/invest resources in their potential offspring.
Therefore, females are more likely to demonstrate selective or choosy behaviours in an attempt to find the most suitable male for them and their potential offspring.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for intersexual selection.
For example, Clarke and Hatfield conducted research where confederates were instructed to approach both male and female students on a university campus and ask one of three questions.
The most pertinent question in the research was ‘I find you very attractive, would you go to bed with me?’
Clarke and Hatfield found that 75% of males were willing to have sex with a stranger, whereas no females were.
This supports the evolutionary theory, because it suggests that females are more selective when choosing a sexual partner, whereas males use a different strategy in order to enhance their reproductive success.

The second AO3 PEEL paragraph is that However, partner preferences over the past century have undoubtedly been influenced by rapidly changing social norms of sexual behaviour.
These develop much faster than evolutionary timescales imply and have instead come about due to cultural factors such as the availability of contraception.
Women’s greater role in the workplace means that they are no longer dependent on men to provide to them (despite the ongoing inequality in earning power).
This is supported by Bereczkei et al. (1997), who argue that women now look for men who are family-orientated and not resource-orientated.
This shows that evolutionary theories do not fully take into account the social factors involved in partner preferences and therefore ignore the role of nurture in partner preferences.
For example, Levinger et al. (1970) found that women value resources more in cultures where their status and educational opportunities are limited.
This shows that evolutionary explanations do not necessarily account for all partner preferences in 2020.

The third AO3 PEEL paragraph is that evolutionary explanations focus on reproductive success and so are unable to explain homosexual relationships and why they exist, as they serve no reproductive value, since no children are produced.
This raises serious ethical issues, because people may use sexual selection theory to highlight the ‘abnormality’ of homosexuality and create prejudice through homophobia.
Evolutionary explanations also cannot explain why some couples choose not to have children either, because they assume that all relationships are motivated by the desire to reproduce, but people get into relationships for many reasons beyond this, too.
Arranged marriages have also existed for centuries, yet such behaviour goes against the theory, as no selection between males is taking place (or very little).
This also shows how cultural factors also play a role in human reproduction which undermines evolutionary explanations.

Fourth AO3 PEEL paragraph

Answer 31

The fourth AO3 PEEL paragraph is that evolutionary explanations make several predictions about partner reference that can be tested empirically

Question 32

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks).
Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool.
Darwin’s theory of sexual selection explains the evolution of characteristics that provide a reproductive advantage, focusing on two key ideas - intersexual selection and intrasexual selection.
Intersexual selection is the evolution of preferences for certain characteristics/qualities within members of the same sex.
For example, all females evolving to prefer tall and muscular men.
Intrasexual selection is where members of the same sex (usually males) compete with one another to attract members of the opposite sex (usually females).
For example, males competing against one another to attract a female.
This leads to male-female dimorphism, which is accentuation of secondary sexual characteristics in those with greater reproductive fitness.

Both males and females have evolved with different preferences.
For example, males are attracted to females who ‘display’ signs of fertility and good health and are more likely to demonstrate promiscuous behaviours.
This is because it is advantageous for males to mate as often as possible to enhance their reproductive success.
Females, however, are attracted to males who can physically protect them and their offspring and have the ability to provide/invest resources in their potential offspring.
Therefore, females are more likely to demonstrate selective or choosy behaviours in an attempt to find the most suitable male for them and their potential offspring.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for intersexual selection.
For example, Clarke and Hatfield conducted research where confederates were instructed to approach both male and female students on a university campus and ask one of three questions.
The most pertinent question in the research was ‘I find you very attractive, would you go to bed with me?’
Clarke and Hatfield found that 75% of males were willing to have sex with a stranger, whereas no females were.
This supports the evolutionary theory, because it suggests that females are more selective when choosing a sexual partner, whereas males use a different strategy in order to enhance their reproductive success.

The second AO3 PEEL paragraph is that However, partner preferences over the past century have undoubtedly been influenced by rapidly changing social norms of sexual behaviour.
These develop much faster than evolutionary timescales imply and have instead come about due to cultural factors such as the availability of contraception.
Women’s greater role in the workplace means that they are no longer dependent on men to provide to them (despite the ongoing inequality in earning power).
This is supported by Bereczkei et al. (1997), who argue that women now look for men who are family-orientated and not resource-orientated.
This shows that evolutionary theories do not fully take into account the social factors involved in partner preferences and therefore ignore the role of nurture in partner preferences.
For example, Levinger et al. (1970) found that women value resources more in cultures where their status and educational opportunities are limited.
This shows that evolutionary explanations do not necessarily account for all partner preferences in 2020.

The third AO3 PEEL paragraph is that evolutionary explanations focus on reproductive success and so are unable to explain homosexual relationships and why they exist, as they serve no reproductive value, since no children are produced.
This raises serious ethical issues, because people may use sexual selection theory to highlight the ‘abnormality’ of homosexuality and create prejudice through homophobia.
Evolutionary explanations also cannot explain why some couples choose not to have children either, because they assume that all relationships are motivated by the desire to reproduce, but people get into relationships for many reasons beyond this, too.
Arranged marriages have also existed for centuries, yet such behaviour goes against the theory, as no selection between males is taking place (or very little).
This also shows how cultural factors also play a role in human reproduction which undermines evolutionary explanations.

The fourth AO3 PEEL paragraph is that evolutionary explanations make several predictions about partner reference that can be tested empirically.
One is that males will

Answer 32

One is that males will show a preference for the female body shape of the typical hourglass figure, which signals fertility and demonstrates to males that she has the qualities required to rear children (and therefore this becomes attractive to them)

Question 33

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks).
Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool.
Darwin’s theory of sexual selection explains the evolution of characteristics that provide a reproductive advantage, focusing on two key ideas - intersexual selection and intrasexual selection.
Intersexual selection is the evolution of preferences for certain characteristics/qualities within members of the same sex.
For example, all females evolving to prefer tall and muscular men.
Intrasexual selection is where members of the same sex (usually males) compete with one another to attract members of the opposite sex (usually females).
For example, males competing against one another to attract a female.
This leads to male-female dimorphism, which is accentuation of secondary sexual characteristics in those with greater reproductive fitness.

Both males and females have evolved with different preferences.
For example, males are attracted to females who ‘display’ signs of fertility and good health and are more likely to demonstrate promiscuous behaviours.
This is because it is advantageous for males to mate as often as possible to enhance their reproductive success.
Females, however, are attracted to males who can physically protect them and their offspring and have the ability to provide/invest resources in their potential offspring.
Therefore, females are more likely to demonstrate selective or choosy behaviours in an attempt to find the most suitable male for them and their potential offspring.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for intersexual selection.
For example, Clarke and Hatfield conducted research where confederates were instructed to approach both male and female students on a university campus and ask one of three questions.
The most pertinent question in the research was ‘I find you very attractive, would you go to bed with me?’
Clarke and Hatfield found that 75% of males were willing to have sex with a stranger, whereas no females were.
This supports the evolutionary theory, because it suggests that females are more selective when choosing a sexual partner, whereas males use a different strategy in order to enhance their reproductive success.

The second AO3 PEEL paragraph is that However, partner preferences over the past century have undoubtedly been influenced by rapidly changing social norms of sexual behaviour.
These develop much faster than evolutionary timescales imply and have instead come about due to cultural factors such as the availability of contraception.
Women’s greater role in the workplace means that they are no longer dependent on men to provide to them (despite the ongoing inequality in earning power).
This is supported by Bereczkei et al. (1997), who argue that women now look for men who are family-orientated and not resource-orientated.
This shows that evolutionary theories do not fully take into account the social factors involved in partner preferences and therefore ignore the role of nurture in partner preferences.
For example, Levinger et al. (1970) found that women value resources more in cultures where their status and educational opportunities are limited.
This shows that evolutionary explanations do not necessarily account for all partner preferences in 2020.

The third AO3 PEEL paragraph is that evolutionary explanations focus on reproductive success and so are unable to explain homosexual relationships and why they exist, as they serve no reproductive value, since no children are produced.
This raises serious ethical issues, because people may use sexual selection theory to highlight the ‘abnormality’ of homosexuality and create prejudice through homophobia.
Evolutionary explanations also cannot explain why some couples choose not to have children either, because they assume that all relationships are motivated by the desire to reproduce, but people get into relationships for many reasons beyond this, too.
Arranged marriages have also existed for centuries, yet such behaviour goes against the theory, as no selection between males is taking place (or very little).
This also shows how cultural factors also play a role in human reproduction which undermines evolutionary explanations.

The fourth AO3 PEEL paragraph is that evolutionary explanations make several predictions about partner reference that can be tested empirically.
One is that males will show a preference for the female body shape of the typical hourglass figure, which signals fertility and demonstrates to males that she has the qualities required to rear children (and therefore this becomes attractive to them).
Who is this supported by?

Answer 33

This is supported by Singh (1993), who found men preferred waist to hip ratios (WHR) of 0.7 across cultures

Question 34

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks).
Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool.
Darwin’s theory of sexual selection explains the evolution of characteristics that provide a reproductive advantage, focusing on two key ideas - intersexual selection and intrasexual selection.
Intersexual selection is the evolution of preferences for certain characteristics/qualities within members of the same sex.
For example, all females evolving to prefer tall and muscular men.
Intrasexual selection is where members of the same sex (usually males) compete with one another to attract members of the opposite sex (usually females).
For example, males competing against one another to attract a female.
This leads to male-female dimorphism, which is accentuation of secondary sexual characteristics in those with greater reproductive fitness.

Both males and females have evolved with different preferences.
For example, males are attracted to females who ‘display’ signs of fertility and good health and are more likely to demonstrate promiscuous behaviours.
This is because it is advantageous for males to mate as often as possible to enhance their reproductive success.
Females, however, are attracted to males who can physically protect them and their offspring and have the ability to provide/invest resources in their potential offspring.
Therefore, females are more likely to demonstrate selective or choosy behaviours in an attempt to find the most suitable male for them and their potential offspring.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for intersexual selection.
For example, Clarke and Hatfield conducted research where confederates were instructed to approach both male and female students on a university campus and ask one of three questions.
The most pertinent question in the research was ‘I find you very attractive, would you go to bed with me?’
Clarke and Hatfield found that 75% of males were willing to have sex with a stranger, whereas no females were.
This supports the evolutionary theory, because it suggests that females are more selective when choosing a sexual partner, whereas males use a different strategy in order to enhance their reproductive success.

The second AO3 PEEL paragraph is that However, partner preferences over the past century have undoubtedly been influenced by rapidly changing social norms of sexual behaviour.
These develop much faster than evolutionary timescales imply and have instead come about due to cultural factors such as the availability of contraception.
Women’s greater role in the workplace means that they are no longer dependent on men to provide to them (despite the ongoing inequality in earning power).
This is supported by Bereczkei et al. (1997), who argue that women now look for men who are family-orientated and not resource-orientated.
This shows that evolutionary theories do not fully take into account the social factors involved in partner preferences and therefore ignore the role of nurture in partner preferences.
For example, Levinger et al. (1970) found that women value resources more in cultures where their status and educational opportunities are limited.
This shows that evolutionary explanations do not necessarily account for all partner preferences in 2020.

The third AO3 PEEL paragraph is that evolutionary explanations focus on reproductive success and so are unable to explain homosexual relationships and why they exist, as they serve no reproductive value, since no children are produced.
This raises serious ethical issues, because people may use sexual selection theory to highlight the ‘abnormality’ of homosexuality and create prejudice through homophobia.
Evolutionary explanations also cannot explain why some couples choose not to have children either, because they assume that all relationships are motivated by the desire to reproduce, but people get into relationships for many reasons beyond this, too.
Arranged marriages have also existed for centuries, yet such behaviour goes against the theory, as no selection between males is taking place (or very little).
This also shows how cultural factors also play a role in human reproduction which undermines evolutionary explanations.

The fourth AO3 PEEL paragraph is that evolutionary explanations make several predictions about partner reference that can be tested empirically.
One is that males will show a preference for the female body shape of the typical hourglass figure, which signals fertility and demonstrates to males that she has the qualities required to rear children (and therefore this becomes attractive to them).
This is supported by Singh (1993), who found men preferred waist to hip ratios (WHR) of 0.7 across cultures.
Why is this combination of wider hips and narrower waist attractive?

Answer 34

This combination of wider hips and narrower waist is attractive, because it is an ‘honest signal’ (hard to fake) that the women is fertile, but not currently pregnant

Question 35

Discuss evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (16 marks)/Discuss the relationship between sexual selection and human reproductive behaviour (16 marks).
Natural selection theory is that genes that confer reproductive advantage will increase in the gene pool.
Darwin’s theory of sexual selection explains the evolution of characteristics that provide a reproductive advantage, focusing on two key ideas - intersexual selection and intrasexual selection.
Intersexual selection is the evolution of preferences for certain characteristics/qualities within members of the same sex.
For example, all females evolving to prefer tall and muscular men.
Intrasexual selection is where members of the same sex (usually males) compete with one another to attract members of the opposite sex (usually females).
For example, males competing against one another to attract a female.
This leads to male-female dimorphism, which is accentuation of secondary sexual characteristics in those with greater reproductive fitness.

Both males and females have evolved with different preferences.
For example, males are attracted to females who ‘display’ signs of fertility and good health and are more likely to demonstrate promiscuous behaviours.
This is because it is advantageous for males to mate as often as possible to enhance their reproductive success.
Females, however, are attracted to males who can physically protect them and their offspring and have the ability to provide/invest resources in their potential offspring.
Therefore, females are more likely to demonstrate selective or choosy behaviours in an attempt to find the most suitable male for them and their potential offspring.

The first AO3 PEEL paragraph is that there is research support for intersexual selection.
For example, Clarke and Hatfield conducted research where confederates were instructed to approach both male and female students on a university campus and ask one of three questions.
The most pertinent question in the research was ‘I find you very attractive, would you go to bed with me?’
Clarke and Hatfield found that 75% of males were willing to have sex with a stranger, whereas no females were.
This supports the evolutionary theory, because it suggests that females are more selective when choosing a sexual partner, whereas males use a different strategy in order to enhance their reproductive success.

The second AO3 PEEL paragraph is that However, partner preferences over the past century have undoubtedly been influenced by rapidly changing social norms of sexual behaviour.
These develop much faster than evolutionary timescales imply and have instead come about due to cultural factors such as the availability of contraception.
Women’s greater role in the workplace means that they are no longer dependent on men to provide to them (despite the ongoing inequality in earning power).
This is supported by Bereczkei et al. (1997), who argue that women now look for men who are family-orientated and not resource-orientated.
This shows that evolutionary theories do not fully take into account the social factors involved in partner preferences and therefore ignore the role of nurture in partner preferences.
For example, Levinger et al. (1970) found that women value resources more in cultures where their status and educational opportunities are limited.
This shows that evolutionary explanations do not necessarily account for all partner preferences in 2020.

The third AO3 PEEL paragraph is that evolutionary explanations focus on reproductive success and so are unable to explain homosexual relationships and why they exist, as they serve no reproductive value, since no children are produced.
This raises serious ethical issues, because people may use sexual selection theory to highlight the ‘abnormality’ of homosexuality and create prejudice through homophobia.
Evolutionary explanations also cannot explain why some couples choose not to have children either, because they assume that all relationships are motivated by the desire to reproduce, but people get into relationships for many reasons beyond this, too.
Arranged marriages have also existed for centuries, yet such behaviour goes against the theory, as no selection between males is taking place (or very little).
This also shows how cultural factors also play a role in human reproduction which undermines evolutionary explanations.

The fourth AO3 PEEL paragraph is that evolutionary explanations make several predictions about partner reference that can be tested empirically.
One is that males will show a preference for the female body shape of the typical hourglass figure, which signals fertility and demonstrates to males that she has the qualities required to rear children (and therefore this becomes attractive to them).
This is supported by Singh (1993), who found men preferred waist to hip ratios (WHR) of 0.7 across cultures.
This combination of wider hips and narrower waist is attractive, because it is an ‘honest signal’ (hard to fake) that the women is fertile, but not currently pregnant.
What does this suggest?

Answer 35

This suggests that evolutionary explanations are valid when explaining relationships