Title of Presentation or Performance
Life History Theory and the Sexual Double Standard
Submission Type
Event
Expected Graduation Date
2012
Location
Atrium, Center for Natural Sciences, Illinois Wesleyan University
Start Date
4-14-2012 9:00 AM
End Date
4-14-2012 10:00 AM
Disciplines
Psychology
Abstract
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.
Included in
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.