Long Term Mating Preferences for Males

These flashcards cover key concepts regarding male long-term mating preferences, the theory behind mate selection, and the factors influencing reproductive capacity and offspring survival.

What is the primary reason males engage in long-term mating despite the potential for higher reproductive success through short-term mating?

Males engage in long-term mating to gain access to high-quality mates and to ensure better investment in offspring, which leads to higher survival rates.

How does long-term mating contribute to paternity certainty for males?

Long-term mating allows males to monitor their mate's reproductive activities, increasing their certainty that the offspring are theirs.

What is the difference in reproductive potential between short-term and long-term mating for males?

Short-term mating allows a male to potentially father many offspring per year, while long-term mating limits him to the offspring produced by a single female.

What is one of the key benefits of long-term mating for the survival of offspring?

Increased investment from both parents leads to better resources, protection, and teaching, which enhances offspring survival and success.

What does reproductive capacity refer to in females?

Reproductive capacity includes both fertility (the probability of conception) and reproductive value (the expected number of offspring over a female's lifespan).

How does age impact a female's reproductive capacity?

Fertility peaks around age 20 and declines thereafter, impacting the overall reproductive capacity a female has.

What are some attributes that signal higher reproductive capacity in females?

Younger age, good health, and traits indicating fertility can signal higher reproductive capacity.

Why are females generally more choosy in mate selection compared to males?

Females invest more in the reproductive process and therefore prioritize long-term mates that offer resources and stability.

How does social status relate to the benefits of long-term mating for males?

Social correlations exist where married men or family men are viewed more positively, which can enhance access to resources and alliances.

What evolutionary reality limits the number of mating opportunities for males engaging in short-term mating?

The willingness of females to mate limits the actual number of mating opportunities for males, regardless of their theoretical reproductive desires.