Evolutionary explanations for partner preference

• Anisogamy


  The basis of human reproductive behaviour. The difference between male and female gametes.

  Males have gametes that are large in quantity and are mobile whereas females have limited number of gametes.
• Sexual Selection


  An evolutionary explanation by which partner preference is shown to be the basis of reproductive success.
• Intra-sexual selection


  The competition that occurs within each sex. It is the strategy used by males to be the one that is selected.
• Dimorphism (intra-sexual selection)


  "Two forms"

  Males and females look very different due to the process of intra sexual selection.
• Inter-sexual selection


  When males select females and vice versa. It is the preferred strategy of the female as they use quality over quantity whereas males prefer the opposite.
• Fisher - "sexy sons" hypothesis

  Fisher predicted that the genes that we see today are a direct result of enhanced reproductive success. Female preferences determine which features go to offspring, giving them the best chance of survival and also the best looks. ("sexy.")
• Research Support - Clark and Hatfield


  INTER SEXUAL SELECTION

  • Asked university students "Would you want to go to bed with me?"
  • 75% of males said yes
  • 0% females said yes
  • Shows females are choosier when selecting a partner

  
  

  BUT can be seen as simplistic as both partners can be choosy
• Research Support - Buss


  INTRA SEXUAL SELECTION

  
  

  • Did a survey on 1000 adults in 33 countries
  • Shown that females placed a greater preference on resources whereas males preferred sex and youth
• Social and Cultural criticism

  • Developed rapidly
  • Women play a greater role in the workplace and so they no longer need men to provide for them