Evolutionary Theory and Family Dynamics Quiz

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Why might a mother sometimes withhold investment in a current fetus?

To ensure the survival of the current fetus.

To increase the chances of future reproduction. (correct)

To maximize parental investment in the current offspring.

To promote kin selection among siblings.

In the Bruce Effect, why might a pregnant animal get rid of the baby?

To save investments and benefits. (correct)

To show dominance over other animals.

To provide more resources to the siblings.

To enhance cooperation within the family.

What can lead parents to increase sibling competition according to the text?

Low relatedness to siblings.

Abundance of resources covering all offspring.

Lack of parental intervention.

Scarcity of resources available for all offspring. (correct)

Why might parents sometimes promote competition between siblings?

To prepare them for resource-scarce environments. Signup and view all the answers

When should parents withhold investment in current offspring according to the ultimate perspective?

In species with low resources and low probability of survival or reproduction. Signup and view all the answers

What is a reason why parents should promote competition among offspring?

It prepares offspring for resource-scarce situations. Signup and view all the answers

Why might a reduction in certainty of paternity lead to differing interest in investment between mother and 'father'?

Fathers may invest less when they are not certain of genetic relatedness. Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential outcome of mothers being selected to reassure paternity?

Increased investment in offspring by both parents. Signup and view all the answers

From an evolutionary perspective, what does the ultimate level explanation provide for cooperation and conflict within families?

Insight into the reasons behind cooperation and conflict based on relatedness. Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential cost associated with living in groups, as mentioned in the text?

Increased risk of infanticide. Signup and view all the answers

How does a reduction in predator pressure benefit animals living in groups?

Leads to dilution and a selfish herd mentality. Signup and view all the answers

Why might mothers be selected to reassure paternity from an evolutionary perspective?

To ensure more investment from fathers in caring for offspring. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main focus of parent-offspring conflict?

Monopolizing resources for current offspring Signup and view all the answers

In the context of parent-offspring conflict, why might offspring be selected to monopolize resources?

Especially when siblings have relatedness coefficient (r) less than 0.5 Signup and view all the answers

What is the 'Weaning Conflict' primarily concerned with?

Balancing benefits and costs between parents and offspring during weaning Signup and view all the answers

From the perspective of weaning age, what does 'time cutting the resources of the cost' refer to?

Balancing the costs and benefits of weaning Signup and view all the answers

In the context of parent-offspring conflict, why do half-siblings play a significant role?

They may have a relatedness coefficient (r) less than 0.5 Signup and view all the answers

What creates conflict during the 'Period of Weaning Conflict'?

Offspring resisting the reduction of parental resources during weaning Signup and view all the answers