(Lec. 10) Human Mating and Marriage Systems

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture on human mating and marriage systems, including sexual selection, reproductive success, mate preferences, and cultural variations.

What is sexual selection primarily concerned with?

Sexual selection is concerned with the advantages certain individuals have over others of the same sex and species, specifically related to reproduction.

What are the two main types of sexual selection discussed?

Inter-sexual selection (mate choice) and intra-sexual competition.

What typically limits female reproductive success?

Adequate resources.

What often limits male reproductive success?

Access to females.

What phenomenon typically leads to larger body sizes among males?

Male-male competition, leading to sexual dimorphism.

What does Bateman’s principle suggest about reproduction?

Variability in reproductive success is usually greater in males than in females.

How does testis size relate to mating competition?

Larger testis size is associated with higher sperm competition and more males copulating with females.

What patterns do humans exhibit in reproductive skew compared to other mammals?

Humans exhibit lower reproductive skew than most other mammals.

What do men generally seek in a mate according to evolutionary psychology?

Men generally prefer youthful and attractive women.

What do women generally prefer in a mate?

Women generally prefer men with plentiful resources.

How does promiscuity benefit females in some contexts?

It can increase the chance of becoming pregnant and provide benefits like protection and resources.

According to Clark and Hatfield (1989), what approach was taken to evaluate attraction behaviors?

Attractive men and women approached members of the opposite sex and asked to go out, go back to their apartment, or go to bed.

What is the significance of mutual mate choice in sexual selection theory?

It acknowledges that both male competition and female choice play vital roles in mating dynamics.

What do Hadza women prefer in a mate?

Hadza women value foraging ability and intelligence in their spouses.

What do Hadza men prioritize in their mate preferences?

Hadza men value fertility and youth more.