Elucidating the origins of heterosexual sex differences in mating psychology by examining the behaviour of homosexual men and women
Year: 2007
Type: dissertation
Abstract: Elucidating the Origins of Heterosexual Sex Differences in Mating Psychology by Examining the Behaviour of Homosexual Men and WomenVarious competing theoretical frameworks have been invoked to explain heterosexual sex differences in mating psychology.Chapter One provides examples of such frameworks, details how considering both heterosexual and homosexual men and women can help identify the most tenable frameworks, and reviews previous research comparing the mating psychology of heterosexual and homosexual men and women.Chapter Two demonstrates the utility of this comparative method by examining the mate retention behaviour of heterosexual and homosexual men and women.Where heterosexual sex differences exist, the mate retention behaviour of homosexual men is largely sex-typical while that of homosexual women is sex-atypical.The significance of these results for explaining heterosexual sex differences in mate retention is discussed.Chapter Three discusses how the data presented and reviewed here might inform our understanding of the psychological mechanisms underlying mating psychology as well as the development of sexual orientation in men and women.iii ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS I would wager that few graduate students are fortunate enough to experience the type of academic environment I have encountered during my tenure at the University of Lethbridge.The intellectual atmosphere provided by the Department of Psychology faculty as well as the graduate and undergraduate students is nothing short of remarkable.Moreover, shortly after I arrived to pursue graduate studies, it became clear that the Department motto is akin to the old "it takes a village" adage.Since then, it has been demonstrated time and again that for the members of the Department this motto is not just some idyllic notion to be espoused, but rather, a way of life.So, when I say that I owe my success to those around me, I do so earnestly.I owe the greatest amount of gratitude to Dr. Paul Vasey, my academic supervisor.Paul, I thank you for your countless hours of pedagogy as well as your advice as a mentor and a friend, which have led me down a path of great intellectual and personal growth.In addition, your generosity has gone well beyond the call of duty.Not only are you a shining example of an exceptional role model for an aspiring academic, but you also display those qualities that one should aspire to as a human being.A great deal of thanks is also owed to the members of my supervisory committee, Drs.Martin Lalumière, Jean Choi, and Shawn Bubel.Martin, your door has always been open to me, and for that I am grateful.I have thoroughly enjoyed each and every one of our many discussions, and valued your insightful comments, which always led to substantial improvements in my work.To Jean and Shawn, I greatly appreciate the support you have provided as members of my committee.You were always helpful and made me feel welcome when discussing my on-going projects.I also owe many thanks to several other faculty members who contributed to my success and intellectual growth.To Dr. John Vokey, you have been a continuing inspiration.Your enthusiasm for examining the world around us is infectious.Thank you for helping me further my understanding of science, research, and, of course, for guiding me toward solutions to my many statistical dilemmas.To Dr. Scott Allen
Author: Doug P. VanderLaan
Language: English
Subfield: Experimental and Cognitive Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
SDG: Gender equality
Open Access status: green
Funder: University of Lethbridge
OpenAlex ID: W247513281