evolutionary explanations for partner preferences A01

Question 1

what is Darwins theory called?

Answer 1

theory of sexual selection

Question 2

define sexual selection

Answer 2

a process whereby favourable characteristics that are inherited will then be represented in future generations

Question 3

state the two ways sexual selection operates

Answer 3

intra and inter sexual selection

Question 4

outline intrasexual selection

Answer 4

this is where members of one sex, usually males, outcompete their sex to gain access to members of the opposite sex ( females.) Those who succeed are able to mate and pass on their genes, those who do not succeed are not able to mate and so cannot pass down their genes. whichever characteristic won the opposite sex will become widespread in the gene pool.

Question 5

outline intersexual selection

Answer 5

members of one sex over time change their preferences for desirable characteristics in future mates and members of the opposite sex who hold these desirable characters have a mating advantage to those who do not. the preferences of the opposite sex determines where they must compete e.g males preferring wider hips so women compete to have wide hips to have a mating advantage.

Question 6

what is more likely to happen if you join forces with an attractive and healthy mate?

Answer 6

more likely to produce attractive, healthy offspring

Question 7

what do females look for in males?

Answer 7

a man able to use and invest his resources into her and the children, able to physically protect her and the children, and shows promise as a good parent

Question 8

what are males more attracted to?

Answer 8

women who display signs of fertility and reproductive value.

Question 9

who conducts a key study for evolutionary explanations in partner preferences?

Answer 9

Buss