Title: Evolutionary Theories in Psychology | Noba
Headings: Evolutionary Theories in Psychology
Evolutionary Theories in Psychology
Learning Objectives
Introduction
Basics of Evolutionary Theory
Sexual Selection Theory
Gene Selection Theory
Evolutionary Psychology
Sexual Strategies Theory
Error Management Theory
Conclusion
Outside Resources
Discussion Questions
Vocabulary
Adaptations
Error management theory (EMT)
Evolution
Gene Selection Theory
Intersexual selection
Intrasexual competition
Natural selection
Psychological adaptations
Sexual selection
​Sexual strategies theory
References
Authors
Creative Commons License
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Content: Choose me!" However, we all know that our ancestors hundreds of thousands of years ago weren’t driving sports cars or wearing designer clothes to attract mates. So how could someone ever say that such behaviors are “biologically programmed” into us? Well, even though our ancestors might not have been doing these specific actions, these behaviors are the result of the same driving force: the powerful influence of evolution. Yes, evolution—certain traits and behaviors developing over time because they are advantageous to our survival. In the case of dating, doing something like offering a gift might represent more than a nice gesture. Just as chimpanzees will give food to mates to show they can provide for them, when you offer gifts to your dates, you are communicating that you have the money or “resources” to help take care of them. And even though the person receiving the gift may not realize it, the same evolutionary forces are influencing his or her behavior as well. The receiver of the gift evaluates not only the gift but also the gift-giver's clothes, physical appearance, and many other qualities, to determine whether the individual is a suitable mate.