Psy 6 Flashcards
What is the evolutionary perspective on human behavior?
Human behavior evolves because it helped ancestors survive and reproduce
This perspective suggests that behaviors are shaped by natural selection.
What are some examples of biologically determined behaviors?
Impulses to eat and sexual impulses
These behaviors are considered innate and influenced by biological factors.
What is natural selection?
The process through which certain traits become more common in a population because they contribute to survival and reproduction
This principle is foundational in evolutionary biology.
How does evolution apply to human behaviors?
Evolution explains the patterns of behavior in humans
This includes mating preferences, aggression, language, and sex differences.
What are mating preferences in the context of evolution?
Behaviors related to choosing mates that enhance reproductive success
These preferences can be influenced by evolutionary pressures.
What does aggression refer to in evolutionary terms?
Behavior patterns that can enhance survival and reproductive success
Aggression can be observed in various contexts, including competition for resources.
What role does language play in evolutionary behavior?
Language is a decision-making tool that facilitates communication and social bonding
It is considered an evolved trait that aids in survival.
What are sex differences in spatial abilities?
Variations in spatial skills between genders that may have evolutionary roots
These differences can impact navigation, hunting, and gathering.
What is paternity uncertainty?
The doubt a male may have regarding the biological parentage of offspring
This concept extends to grandparents and can influence mating strategies.
What percentage of paternity uncertainty extends to grandparents?
93%
This statistic highlights the implications of paternity uncertainty across generations.
What is the evolutionary perspective on human behavior?
Human behavior evolves because it helped ancestors survive and reproduce
This perspective suggests that behaviors are shaped by natural selection.
What are some examples of biologically determined behaviors?
Impulses to eat and sexual impulses
These behaviors are considered innate and influenced by biological factors.
What is natural selection?
The process through which certain traits become more common in a population because they contribute to survival and reproduction
This principle is foundational in evolutionary biology.
How does evolution apply to human behaviors?
Evolution explains the patterns of behavior in humans
This includes mating preferences, aggression, language, and sex differences.
What are mating preferences in the context of evolution?
Behaviors related to choosing mates that enhance reproductive success
These preferences can be influenced by evolutionary pressures.
What does aggression refer to in evolutionary terms?
Behavior patterns that can enhance survival and reproductive success
Aggression can be observed in various contexts, including competition for resources.
What role does language play in evolutionary behavior?
Language is a decision-making tool that facilitates communication and social bonding
It is considered an evolved trait that aids in survival.
What are sex differences in spatial abilities?
Variations in spatial skills between genders that may have evolutionary roots
These differences can impact navigation, hunting, and gathering.
What is paternity uncertainty?
The doubt a male may have regarding the biological parentage of offspring
This concept extends to grandparents and can influence mating strategies.
What percentage of paternity uncertainty extends to grandparents?
93%
This statistic highlights the implications of paternity uncertainty across generations.
