Examining the interaction between altruism and resource potential in heterosexual women's mate preferences.

Abstract

Previous research has shown that altruism is an important trait in romantic relationships, particularly in longer relationships, where it can signal the underlying characteristics (e.g., kindness) that are valued in good partners/parents. Further evidence of this has been observed when comparing the interaction between altruism and other traits (e.g., physical attractiveness) that may signal other qualities (e.g., good genes), where altruism was preferred by heterosexual women in long-term partners. To further explore the role of altruism in relationships and its interaction with other mate choice traits, the current study examined heterosexual women's preferences for altruism and a trait signaling good investment, that of resource potential. Here we found that, as predicted, women preferred altruistic male partners for long-term relationships, and that altruism was a more desired trait than resource potential in potential long-term partners. These findings support the view that altruism is a highly valued trait in relationship formation due to its signaling good partner/parent indicators, and is more important than resource potential when women choose long-term partners. Public Significance StatementAltruistic acts have been shown to be valued in mate choice, and as indicators of an individual's quality as a good partner and parent they are more valued in long-term relationships than indicators of other qualities such as physical attractiveness (which indicates good genetic quality). This study found that heterosexual women also view altruistic traits as more desirable in long-term partners than resource potential, which can be an indicator of good investment. These findings therefore show once more how preferences for altruism have evolved in long-term mate choice, and also the importance of exploring how different mate choice traits interact with each other when such decisions are made.

A prospective and retrospective 10-year study of altruism and reproductive success.

“…Research has found that both men and women prefer altruistic partners (Bhogal et al, 2020; Moore et al, 2013), and this is particularly important when seeking a long-term relationship (Farrelly, 2013; Farrelly et al, 2016; Skilton & Farrelly, 2022). Preference for an altruistic partner has also been found to be somewhat stronger in women than in men (Farrelly et al, 2007; Phillips et al, 2008).…”