Evolutionary explanations Flashcards
Why is sexual jealousy a major motivator of aggression in males?
Men can never be 100% sure of paternity (paternity uncertainty).
Cuckoldry is an evolutionary risk because it wastes resources on a rival’s genes.
What is cuckoldry?
raising another man’s child
Why has sexual jealousy evolved more strongly in men than women?
Men who prevented cuckoldry had greater reproductive success.
How have psychological mechanisms evolved?
To increase anti cuckoldry behaviours in males.
What is the purpose of mate retention strategies?
To prevent infidelity and secure paternity.
Can lead to aggressive behaviors, including domestic violence.
What are two key mate retention strategies identified by Wilson & Daly?
Direct guarding
Negative inducements
What is direct guarding?
Male vigilance over a partner’s behaviour
What are negative inducements?
Threats of dire consequences for cheating.
What was Wilsons et al study?
Asked women to report mate retention strategies in their partners
Measured to what extent do they agree
What did Wilson et al. find about mate retention strategies and violence?
Women who reported mate retention behaviors were twice as likely to experience physical violence.
73% required medical attention.
53% feared for their lives.
retention strategies linked to finance
Why does bullying occur?
It results from a power imbalance, where a stronger individual repeatedly uses aggression against a weaker one.
What did Volk et al. suggest about male bullying?
Bullying behavior is attractive to females.
It wards off rivals, leading to greater reproductive success.
How does bullying benefit a male’s health?
Dominant males face less aggression from others.
Reduced stress levels improve health and longevity.
Why do females engage in bullying?
Used within relationships to control a partner and secure fidelity.
Ensures the male continues to provide resources for offspring.
How does female bullying relate to evolutionary success?
It ensures partner commitment.
Leading to greater reproductive success.
