Graduation Year
2012
Location
Atrium, Center for Natural Sciences, Illinois Wesleyan University
Start Date
14-4-2012 9:00 AM
End Date
14-4-2012 10:00 AM
Description
The present study sought to examine the relationship between the sexual double standard and life history theory. The sexual double standard is the idea that a man is rewarded for sexual behavior, whereas a woman is derogated. Life history theory posits that females who grow up with estranged relationships with their fathers or in divorced households view dating and relationships differently than do other females. To investigate a possible relation between life history theory and the double standard, we had participants report on their interactions with their parents and then rate fictional male or female targets who reported having had varying numbers of sexual partners. Results revealed a relationship between the marital state of female participants’ parents and their exhibition of the double standard. Contrary to expectations, results also revealed a relationship between female participants’ relationships with their mothers (but not fathers) and the exhibition of the double standard.
Life History Theory and the Sexual Double Standard
Atrium, Center for Natural Sciences, Illinois Wesleyan University
The present study sought to examine the relationship between the sexual double standard and life history theory. The sexual double standard is the idea that a man is rewarded for sexual behavior, whereas a woman is derogated. Life history theory posits that females who grow up with estranged relationships with their fathers or in divorced households view dating and relationships differently than do other females. To investigate a possible relation between life history theory and the double standard, we had participants report on their interactions with their parents and then rate fictional male or female targets who reported having had varying numbers of sexual partners. Results revealed a relationship between the marital state of female participants’ parents and their exhibition of the double standard. Contrary to expectations, results also revealed a relationship between female participants’ relationships with their mothers (but not fathers) and the exhibition of the double standard.