The evolutionary theory significantly informs psychologists to understand gender differences in mate selection. The theory postulates that being a good provider and having good genes as the two primary considerations for women when choosing a male partner (Göz, Bahçekapili, & Yilmaz, 2018). A good provider has to do with the financial capability of the man while good genes emphasize on physical attractiveness. Economically independent women, however, have a third consideration in mate selection. These women are more likely to select a mate who portrays the characteristics of a good father (Göz, Bahçekapili, & Yilmaz, 2018). The contemporary society requires a man that will not only provide for his family but also provide parental love to the children. Women with high-socio-economic status are thus more likely to be attracted to men with a sense of responsibility. As women become more economically empowered, their preference for men is expected to change.
The evolutionary theory postulates that biological necessities such as genetic quality may influence the selection of a mate in women. Both men and women are likely to choose mates who possess certain genetic qualities such as intelligence and physical desirability (Göz, Bahçekapili, & Yilmaz, 2018). Women value mental qualities more than physical attractiveness while men prefer desirable physical characteristics. The theory further suggests that increased self-perception of being attractive increases the importance that both genders put on the biological necessities during mate selection. Willingness and ability to provide are some of the culturally dependent factors that women are likely to consider when selecting a mate. In a cultural setting where men are considered to be providers, women are more likely to choose partners who are capable and willing to provide for them (Chen, Piercy, & Miller, 2017).
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Social psychology theories, however, refute the claims made by evolutionary psychology theory. For instance, the filter theory suggests that due to the constraints of the social structure, individuals are likely to select mates who are similar to them (Shoemake, 2007). Individuals are expected to choose mates with the same social and economic status (Aronson, Wilson, Akert, & Sommers, 2019). Women are more likely to select a partner from a family with a social status similar to theirs.
References
Aronson, E., Wilson, T. D., Akert, R. M., & Sommers, S. R. (Eds.). (2019). Social psychology (10th ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson.
Chen, R., Piercy, F. P., & Miller, J. K. (2017). A Cross-Cultural Mate Selection Study of Chinese and US Men and Women. Journal of Comparative Family Studies, 48(2), 243-260.
Göz, İ., Bahçekapili, H. G., & Yilmaz, O. (2018). Testing evolutionary and cultural theories regarding mate selection in Turkey. Personality and Individual Differences, 135, 307-311.
Shoemake, E. G. (2007). Human mate selection theory: An integrated evolutionary and social approach. Journal of scientific psychology, 11, 35-41.
