Unit 3-C (D): Evolutionary Psychology Mr. McCormick A.P. Psychology

changed physically due to Do-Now (Discussion) What are some ways that humans have changed physically due to Natural Selection?

Evolutionary Psychology The study of the evolution of behavior and the mind using principles of natural selection Natural Selection: The principle that, among the range of inherited trait variations, those that lead to increased reproduction and survival will most likely be passed on to succeeding generations

Evolutionary Psychology It’s all about survival: Organisms’ varied offspring compete for survival Certain biological and behavioral variations increase organisms’ reproductive and survival chances in their particular environment Offspring that survive are more likely to pass their genes to ensuing generations Over time, population characteristics may change

Evolutionary Psychology What are some human psychological traits the promote survival?

Evolutionary Psychology Mutation: A random error in gene replication that leads to a change

Evolutionary Psychology Many psychological traits that humans possess today have their roots in evolution: Food preferences Fears Stress management Gender differences Sexual behaviors Some evolutionary psychologists feel that humans are biologically prepared for a world that no longer exists

Evolutionary Psychology: Differences in Sexual Behavior In general, which sex tends to be more sexually aggressive and promiscuous? How might an evolutionary psychologist explain men’s higher rate of sexual activity?

Evolutionary Psychology: Differences in Sexual Behavior Question (summarized) Male Female Casual sex 58% 34% Sex for affection 25% 48% Think about sex everyday 54% 19%

Evolutionary Psychology: Differences in Sexual Behavior Psychological Study on Sexual Preferences: In a range of cultures studied (indicated by red dots), more men than women preferred youthful women; more women than men preferred mates with resources and social status

The Biopsychosocial Approach: Nature And Nurture

Review What is Evolutionary Psychology? How does Natural Selection apply to human thought and behavior? How are the following a result of psychobiological evolution in humans: Preference for sweet and fatty foods Fear of spiders and snakes, but not guns and electricity Men’s higher rate of sexual activity What does the Biopsychosocial Approach suggest about the Nature-Nurture Debate?

Homework Unit 3 Test: “Biological Bases of Behavior” Chapter 6 Outline: “Sensation and Perception”