Psychology 101: Evolutionary Psychology:
Evolutionary Psychology
1. Mostly focuses on what makes us alike as humans 2. Some variations arise from mutations; others from new gene combinations at conception
Natural Selection: Step 1
Begins with a species genome, which contains a variety of genes that shape traits
Natural Selection: Step 2
Conditions make it difficult for individuals with some traits (some versions of those genes) to survive long enough to reproduce
Natural Selection: Step 3
Other individuals have their traits & genes "selected" to spread in the population
Evolutionary Psychology Def.
The study of the evolution of behavior & the mind, using natural selection principles
Male/Female Differences: Sexuality & Mating Behavior
WHY MIGHT NATURAL SELECTION HAVE RESULTED IN CERTAIN PREFERENCES FOR MATES? 1. Male choices optimized the chances of producing offspring (i.e. narrow waist, fuller figure, of age to conceive) 2. Female choices optimized offspring survival (loyal behavior, physical/social power & resources)
Male/Female Differences: Sexuality & Mating Behavior
WHY MIGHT NATURAL SELECTION HAVE RESULTED IN GREATER MALE PROMISCUITY? 1. No consequences (evolutionarily) to spreading extra genes for men 2. Greater promiscuity for women= greater chance of pregnancy, which had greater survival costs (especially several generations ago)
