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A second look at neo-Darwinian A second look at neo-Darwinian explanation of gender differencesexplanation of gender differences
Book offers additional review of “pro” and “con” evidence on pp. 341-342– Evidence on physical attraction is especially mixed.
Additional critiques
Males aren’t the only one doing the “selecting”—females are selecting as well– Alpha females
Some earlier theories often regard organisms as solitary creatures, acting unilaterally and toward their own selfish interests
– But behavior doesn’t take place in vacuum—everything is in context.– Likely to involve a complex set of interactions between males and females
Foundation for the principles of Game Theory
exampleexample In reality, it is not always in the best interest of the male to
literally mate indiscriminately – Such actions could serve as a neon sign to females—stay away
from this dude.– Likely to elicit extreme aggression by male competitors
What strategy should male follow, then?– Be monogamous, or….– Give the impression of being monogamous, but practice deceit
However, latter strategy could encourage females to be especially good at detecting when the male is lying– Which could encourage better lying techniques by males, etc…
In theory, as this dynamic is repeated over million of years, it has implications for the success of certain genetic traits
Initial considerationsInitial considerations
Complex! Theories need to be able to explain both
“commonsense” and nonintuitive findings Theories need to be tested empirically
– E.g. validity of MBTI
OverviewOverview
1. Social Exchange & Equity theories
2. Rusbult’s investment model of commitment
3. Attachment Theory
4. Communal vs. “keeping score” relationship orientation
Social Exchange – Minimize costs, Maximize rewards – Comparison level– Comparison level for alternatives
Equity Theory– Balance between give and take– Important, but not the whole story– Personal investment is vital too
Rusbult’s Investment Model of Rusbult’s Investment Model of CommitmentCommitment
Rewards
Costs
Comparison level
Satisfaction with relationship
Level of investment
Quality of alternatives
Commitment to relationship
Stability of relationship
Test of investment modelTest of investment model
.85
.50
.84
.32.62
.28
Commitment Decision to break up
satisfaction
alternatives
investment
Harlow, 1959: Monkeys with 2 “mothers”:
-Wire with bottle
-Cloth without bottle
Babies clung to cloth “mother” much more, despite the fact that the wire one offered food.
Attachment Theory
We form two working models while young—
1. Towards the self: self-worth or self-esteem.
2. Towards others: interpersonal trust.
These determine Attachment Style…
Attachment Theory
Secure: An expectation about social relationships characterized by trust, a lack of concern with being abandoned, and a feeling of being valued and well liked.
Avoidant: An expectation about social relationships characterized by a lack of trust and a suppression of attachment needs.
Anxious- Ambivalent: An expectation about social relationships characterized by a fear that others will not return affection.
Attachment Styles:
Attachment style influences relationships throughout our lives:
Relationship:
Frequency Satisfaction Length
Secure ?
Avoidant ?
Anxious
Can Attachment Style change??
YES
– Reactive ways– Proactive ways
– So don’t just blame your parents!
Equity theory, reduxEquity theory, redux
Equity theory appears to apply well in “new” or relatively non-intimate relationships
But not so much for longer-term relationships
Exchange vs. communal relationships
“Keeping score” orientation:
-Early stages
-Acquaintances/ casual friends
Communal orientation:
-Later stages
-Close friends, family, romantic partners.