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
How to cite this Noba module using APA Style

Content: 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. But because these evolutionary processes are hardwired into us, it is easy to overlook their influence. To broaden your understanding of evolutionary processes, this module will present some of the most important elements of evolution as they impact psychology. Evolutionary theory helps us piece together the story of how we humans have prospered. It also helps to explain why we behave as we do on a daily basis in our modern world: why we bring gifts on dates, why we get jealous, why we crave our favorite foods, why we protect our children, and so on.