Evolved Psychological Mechanisms Quiz
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Questions and Answers

What is a primary characteristic of an evolved psychological mechanism?

  • It has a broad range of input processing capabilities.
  • It is designed to solve specific problems of survival or reproduction. (correct)
  • It exists in isolation from evolutionary pressures.
  • It can adapt to any environmental changes without limitations.

    • How does the design of an evolved psychological mechanism relate to its function?

  • The design is random and does not relate to its function.
  • The design can be modified easily to fit new functions.
  • The design features must align with specific adaptive problems. (correct)
  • The function only depends on the environment, not on design.

    • What does the analogy of a key and a lock represent in the context of evolved psychological mechanisms?

  • The randomness of evolution.
  • The specific relationship between design and adaptive problem-solving. (correct)
  • The flexibility of the human brain.
  • The compatibility of psychological mechanisms across species.

    • Why is the human eye considered an example of an evolved psychological mechanism?

    <p>It is adapted to detect a specific range of electromagnetic waves.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of information do evolved psychological mechanisms typically process?

    <p>A narrow subset of information relevant to survival.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why might fear of snakes be considered an evolved psychological mechanism?

    <p>It is tailored to respond to specific features of dangerous animals.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What recurring theme is often considered in the functioning of evolved psychological mechanisms?

    <p>They must activate based on ancestral environmental cues.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a limitation of evolved psychological mechanisms according to the content?

    <p>They take in only a limited range of information.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What function do evolved psychological mechanisms primarily serve?

    <p>To provide solutions to adaptive problems</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do organisms typically respond to cues from their environment according to evolved psychological mechanisms?

    <p>By evaluating input and forming decision rules</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What outcome can result from the physiological output of an evolved psychological mechanism?

    <p>Physiological arousal or fear</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT considered an output of an evolved psychological mechanism?

    <p>Memorizing facts about ecology</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What mechanism guides the decision-making of individuals facing an angry rival?

    <p>If-then decision rules</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why might strong taste preferences for fat and sugar become maladaptive in modern environments?

    <p>Fat and sugar are now overabundant.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the term 'mismatch' refer to in evolutionary psychology?

    <p>The disconnection between ancestral and current environments</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What triggers reactions of sexual jealousy according to the content provided?

    <p>Cues signaling the potential loss of a partner</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of these is a typical behavioral output when an individual sees a snake?

    <p>Choosing to flee or freeze</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the input leading to the decision-making process in the context of sexual jealousy?

    <p>Observing close interactions with a partner</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the output of an evolved psychological mechanism aim to achieve?

    <p>To solve a specific adaptive problem</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How are decision rules formulated in organisms as part of evolved psychological mechanisms?

    <p>As structured if-then statements</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which aspect of evolved psychological mechanisms emphasizes their historical effectiveness?

    <p>Their origins in the evolutionary past</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common response when an individual feels threatened by an angry rival?

    <p>Evaluating the size and strength of the rival</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of evolved psychological mechanisms?

    <p>To transform information into output for adaptive problem-solving</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is function considered important in understanding psychological mechanisms?

    <p>It provides a nonarbitrary basis for identifying different mechanisms</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do evolved psychological mechanisms display specificity?

    <p>They focus on distinct adaptive problems with specific solutions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is an example of a general solution to selection problems mentioned in the text?

    <p>Choosing the first object encountered</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role do errors play in the function of evolved psychological mechanisms?

    <p>They trigger other adaptations to correct the mistake</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How is food selection related to adaptive problems?

    <p>Specific qualities of food directly impact survival success</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the analogy of giving directions illustrate regarding adaptive solutions?

    <p>Specific directions yield better outcomes in solving adaptive challenges</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why are evolved psychological mechanisms considered numerous and complex?

    <p>They consist of various components that address different adaptive problems</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What determines the success of mate selection according to the content?

    <p>Identifying partners with traits that indicate fertility and parenting capabilities</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what way does specificity of evolved mechanisms contribute to human behavior?

    <p>It allows flexibility in responses to diverse challenges</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the term 'nonarbitrary criteria' refer to in understanding psychological mechanisms?

    <p>Criteria grounded in the functions of mechanisms</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following illustrates the problem-specific nature of psychological mechanisms?

    <p>Tailored strategies that address unique adaptive challenges</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do the evolved psychological mechanisms impact modern human behavior?

    <p>They allow for a wide range of adaptable responses</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does a successful solution for food selection require?

    <p>Identifying nutritious and safe food options</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What do proponents of domain-general mechanisms argue about human evolution?

    <p>General mechanisms evolved to solve non-recurrent evolutionary problems.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is suggested as a potential domain-general mechanism?

    <p>Classical conditioning</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one reason given for the evolution of domain-general mechanisms?

    <p>To handle unpredictability and variability in human history.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a criticism of the concept of domain-general mechanisms?

    <p>Adaptations for novel tasks cannot be generalized to all scenarios.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do evolved psychological mechanisms potentially interact with each other?

    <p>Complex sequences determine how they are activated.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What do some evolutionary psychologists think about the interaction of different mechanisms?

    <p>They provide input into decision-making based on different cues.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What concept is connected to the idea of information encapsulation?

    <p>Mechanisms accessing only self-contained information.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which phrase summarizes Kanazawa's view on general intelligence?

    <p>A domain-specific adaptation for evolutionarily novel problems.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is unclear about the existence of domain-general mechanisms?

    <p>Whether they exist alongside domain-specific mechanisms.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of environments do proponents argue humans have been forced to adapt to?

    <p>Rapidly changing and unpredictable environments.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of human behavior is often questioned regarding its origins?

    <p>If all behaviors are influenced solely by culture.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a major focus of research within evolutionary psychology mentioned in the text?

    <p>Identifying universal mechanisms of human thinking.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role might superordinate mechanisms play according to the text?

    <p>They regulate other psychological mechanisms.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main argument regarding the relationship between evolved and learned behaviors?

    <p>Both evolved and learned behaviors require environmental input.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of mechanism is responsible for learned incest avoidance?

    <p>Evolved learning mechanism relying on proximity.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which example demonstrates a learned behavior through a physiological response?

    <p>Learning food aversions after feeling nauseous.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do individuals in different cultures learn about prestige criteria?

    <p>By focusing on those who attract the most attention.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common misconception about labeling a behavior as 'learned'?

    <p>It provides a full explanation of the behavior.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following points is crucial in understanding learned behaviors?

    <p>Evolved mechanisms are necessary for learning to occur.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the evolutionary framework suggest about nature versus nurture?

    <p>The dichotomy between nature and nurture is dissolved.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What method is NOT listed as a way to test evolutionary hypotheses?

    <p>Psychological assessments.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of evolved learning mechanisms?

    <p>They remain unchanged across all species.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can be inferred about the role of cultural input in learning behaviors?

    <p>Cultural input enhances the understanding of social dynamics.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement best describes the process of learning according to the content discussed?

    <p>Learning involves both evolved mechanisms and environmental input.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is necessary for the activation of evolved psychological mechanisms?

    <p>Environmental input during development.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do individuals learn to avoid food that may contain toxins?

    <p>Through direct experience of feeling sick after eating.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement is true regarding the learning of prestige criteria in different societies?

    <p>It varies depending on cultural attention structures.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary reason for the specificity of adaptive mechanisms in humans?

    <p>To reduce costs associated with errors</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT considered a problem that humans face according to the content?

    <p>Developing technological solutions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do psychological mechanisms differ from rigid instincts?

    <p>They include flexible decision rules that allow for multiple responses</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What analogy is used to explain how humans gain behavioral flexibility?

    <p>A carpenter's toolbox with many specific tools</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the content, why is a generic solution not effective for all adaptive problems?

    <p>Different problems require different success measures</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can be inferred about the relationship between the number of evolved psychological mechanisms and behavioral flexibility?

    <p>Increased mechanisms enhance the range of potential behaviors</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of human adaptive problems does the content emphasize?

    <p>Their necessity for specialization</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement best describes the role of the environment in activating psychological mechanisms?

    <p>Input from the environment is essential for the activation of mechanisms</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following correctly categorizes problems that humans face?

    <p>Survival, mating, and parenting</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it suggested that the idea of a single generic mechanism is not credible?

    <p>Specific problems require distinct solutions that cannot be generalized</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common metaphor to illustrate how the mind functions regarding psychological mechanisms?

    <p>A highly specialized factory with different departments</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the concept of decision rules relate to psychological mechanisms?

    <p>They outline specific actions based on situational cues</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What implication does the content suggest about the number of mechanisms in the human mind?

    <p>More mechanisms increase potential function and adaptability</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one implication of having specific mechanisms for different adaptive problems?

    <p>It enhances the ability to respond appropriately per situation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of comparing species that differ along particular dimensions?

    <p>To test predictions about the occurrence of specific traits</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which method is NOT a source of data for testing evolutionary hypotheses?

    <p>Genetic mapping</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the sperm competition hypothesis, which species would likely have the largest testicular weight?

    <p>Chimpanzees</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does cross-cultural research typically examine in the context of evolutionary psychology?

    <p>Universal adaptations across different cultures</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which adaptive problem is highlighted in the comparison of cliff-dwelling and non-cliff-dwelling goats?

    <p>Avoiding predators during grazing</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a functional hypothesis related to the comparison of species?

    <p>All species exhibit the same mating strategies</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What hormone showed higher levels in children living with stepparents compared to those living with two biological parents?

    <p>Cortisol</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What outcome was found in Lippa’s study on mental rotation ability across cultures?

    <p>Gender differences increased in cultures with more gender equality</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What effect does the presence of attractive women have on men's testosterone levels?

    <p>It increases testosterone levels.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which physiological method is used to assess emotional arousal?

    <p>Brain imaging techniques</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a limitation of using fMRI in testing hypotheses about adaptations?

    <p>Participants must remain immobile during scans.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In testing the sperm competition hypothesis, what characteristic was primarily measured across different primates?

    <p>Testicular weight</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one method mentioned for testing adaptive functions across species?

    <p>Comparative ecological assessments</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the focus of behavioral genetic methods in evolutionary psychology?

    <p>Test whether individual differences are genetically or environmentally mediated.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which allele of the DRD4 gene is associated with novelty seeking and occurs at different rates across geographical regions?

    <p>7R</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What trait is suggested to be linked with male hunting adaptations according to the mental rotation hypothesis?

    <p>Spatial orientation abilities</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which evolutionary hypothesis relates to variations in mate preferences in response to parasite prevalence?

    <p>Ecological variation hypothesis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does paternity uncertainty refer to in the context of evolutionary adaptations?

    <p>The challenge of determining a child's genetic father.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of studies can reveal the genetic basis of adaptations within the last 10,000 years?

    <p>Molecular genetic studies</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which species comparison is used to study adaptations to predator presence?

    <p>Species with known predators vs. those without</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which is an example of a method that can be employed to assess stress in evolutionary psychology?

    <p>Physiological assessments</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do male and female adaptive problems differ in species with internal female fertilization?

    <p>Males face paternity certainty while females do not.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What has molecular genetic evidence suggested about human adaptive evolution over the past 40,000 years?

    <p>There has been an acceleration of adaptive evolution.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which hypothesis regarding female sexuality is tested using behavioral genetic methods?

    <p>Environmental factors influence onset of female sexuality.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one reason why comparing young and older women can be informative in evolutionary psychology?

    <p>Differences in reproductive potential can indicate evolutionary adaptations.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the 7R allele of the DRD4 gene suggest about human behavior in novel environments?

    <p>It is advantageous for exploiting new resources.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role does male sexual jealousy play in evolutionary psychology?

    <p>It helps males to ensure parental investment and reduce paternity uncertainty.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one hypothesis regarding why younger women are more likely to abort than older women?

    <p>Older women may not get another chance to have a child.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In comparing the abortion rates of younger and older women, what aspect is being tested?

    <p>Evolutionary hypotheses about reproductive trends</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one social change observed in the Siriono man after improving his hunting skills?

    <p>He attracted several women as partners.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a challenge researchers face when comparing individuals in different contexts?

    <p>Individuals do not change their environments often enough.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In experimental methods, what is the purpose of having a control group?

    <p>To assess how external threats affect behavior.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What do computer simulations of evolutionary strategies allow researchers to discover?

    <p>Which strategies can evolve and are evolutionarily stable.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How was the hypothesis tested regarding external threats increasing in-group cohesion?

    <p>By comparing money allocation in threatened and control groups.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the increased in-group favoritism under threat suggest about human evolution?

    <p>Humans may possess adaptations for responding to threats.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What factor was manipulated in the study on in-group cohesion under threat?

    <p>The perception of an external threat to individuals.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What historical power dynamics did Holmberg's study with the Siriono illustrate?

    <p>Status and skills greatly affect social relationships.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did the study involving mate preferences seek to understand through computer simulations?

    <p>The stability and effectiveness of different mate preferences.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following demographic comparisons is suggested as a method for testing evolutionary hypotheses?

    <p>Comparing wealthy individuals to poorer individuals.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following represents a challenge in conducting psychological experiments?

    <p>Difficulty in controlling environmental variables.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does increased social status do to individuals in competitive societies, as seen with the Siriono man?

    <p>It increases self-confidence and respect from others.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of agent-based modeling in evolutionary psychology?

    <p>To simulate interactions of individuals over time as a research tool</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do archaeological records contribute to the understanding of evolution?

    <p>They offer clues about past lives and adaptive challenges</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What finding was confirmed by Mark Flinn's observational studies?

    <p>Men with fertile wives engaged in more mate guarding</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a limitation associated with self-report data?

    <p>Respondents may not disclose socially undesirable behaviors</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What do data from hunter-gatherer societies primarily help researchers examine?

    <p>Evolutionary hypotheses related to reproduction and social structures</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did the studies on sexual fantasies reveal about gender differences?

    <p>Men's fantasies are often about more sexual partners and partner switching</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was Richard Feynman's perspective on understanding psychological phenomena?

    <p>Recreating processes in simulations is a measure of understanding</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do agent-based models inform laboratory studies?

    <p>They provide new hypotheses to test based on model behavior</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which method was employed to systematically gather observations in Flinn's study?

    <p>Behavioral scanning technique</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect does the analysis of fossilized feces provide insight into?

    <p>Distinctions in dietary habits of ancestors</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What advantage do successful hunters receive in hunter-gatherer societies according to research?

    <p>Increased social status and reproductive advantages</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which is a common concern with self-reporting methods?

    <p>Subjects are usually biased or dishonest in their answers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does an evolutionary psychologist aim to achieve by using systematic observations?

    <p>To observe behaviors in natural settings to validate hypotheses</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does agent-based modeling help researchers identify in their studies?

    <p>Theoretical blind spots and overlooked elements</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of data did Bobbi Low use to test evolutionary hypotheses?

    <p>Public records of marriages and divorces from historical parishes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor may mislead researchers when interpreting life-history data?

    <p>Systematic biases present in public records</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one benefit of using multiple data sources in evolutionary psychology research?

    <p>It helps transcend limitations of any single data source.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What challenge does identifying human adaptive problems present to scientists?

    <p>The evolutionary clock cannot be rewound to study past challenges.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which class of adaptive problems involves securing survival until reproduction is possible?

    <p>Problems of survival and growth</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant adaptive problem regarding social group dynamics?

    <p>How to ensure inclusion in social groups</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do modern human products reflect evolved psychological mechanisms?

    <p>They often exploit evolved tastes and fantasies.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which option describes a reaction when exploring the complexities of adaptive mechanisms in evolution?

    <p>Some adaptations lead to further adaptive problems.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which issue poses a limitation when using self-report data in research?

    <p>Participants may inadvertently provide false information.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role do evolved taste preferences play in modern food consumption?

    <p>They influence the popularity of high-fat, high-sugar foods.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How can cultural products like novels or films be viewed in relation to human psychology?

    <p>They reveal common themes related to evolved fantasies.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What advantage does evolutionary theory provide in identifying adaptive problems?

    <p>It highlights problems crucial for successful reproduction.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a consequence of the modern food environment on human behavior?

    <p>Behaviors previously adaptive may now hinder survival.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can derive from the independent examination of human adaptive problems?

    <p>A deeper understanding of complex adaptive mechanisms.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What major adaptive challenge arises from group living among the same species?

    <p>Increased competition for resources</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which social structure is a universal feature of human interaction?

    <p>Status hierarchies</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why are traditional societies valuable for understanding human adaptive problems?

    <p>They reflect the conditions under which we evolved.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one significant role of women in hunter-gatherer societies that has recently been recognized?

    <p>They may have actively participated in hunting.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of evidence do skeletal analyses provide regarding our ancestors?

    <p>Clues on diet and causes of death.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which aspect of current psychological mechanisms indicates ancestral survival issues?

    <p>Universality of common human phobias.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What fundamental observation does task analysis begin with?

    <p>Existence of human structures or phenomena.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What cognitive challenge must people solve to identify genetic relatives?

    <p>Recognizing visual similarities.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary focus of the book regarding human challenges?

    <p>Adaptive problems and psychological solutions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is necessary for successful large-game hunting in traditional societies?

    <p>Formation of coalitions and coordination.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the primary survival problems addressed before reproduction?

    <p>Ensuring adequate resource acquisition.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What tendency is observed when people aid their genetic relatives?

    <p>Higher likelihood of aiding close relatives.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What overarching theme relates to the exploration of psychological mechanisms?

    <p>Historical effectiveness of these mechanisms.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common psychological outcome when facing social competition?

    <p>Heightened feelings of jealousy.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary focus of evolutionary psychology?

    <p>Exploring adaptations related to survival and reproduction.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the 'top-down' strategy of hypothesis generation?

    <p>Generating hypotheses from general theories to specific predictions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is the testing of evolutionary hypotheses often more effective when using multiple methods?

    <p>It allows for validation across various contexts.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the three primary products of the evolutionary process as noted in the content?

    <p>Adaptations, by-products of adaptations, and random effects.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do evolved psychological mechanisms handle information?

    <p>By taking in narrow subsets of information for specific problem-solving.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following reflective behaviors could indicate an evolved psychological mechanism's response?

    <p>Taking flight when encountering an aggressive animal.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does 'reverse engineering' refer to in the context of hypothesis generation?

    <p>Examining known phenomena to derive potential functions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What kind of data sources can evolutionary psychology utilize?

    <p>A variety of sources including archaeological and experimental data.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following represents a class of adaptive problems identified in modern evolutionary theory?

    <p>Problems of interacting with genetic relatives.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What might indicate a significant adaptive problem in traditional cultures?

    <p>Tasks revolving around hunting and gathering for survival.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which physiological method could be used to test evolutionary hypotheses?

    <p>Comparing brain imaging results among different species.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role do psychological mechanisms play in evolutionary theory?

    <p>They are essential for solving specific adaptive problems.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which aspect of evolved psychological mechanisms emphasizes their problem-specific nature?

    <p>They are designed to address distinct adaptive challenges.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the term 'empirical phenomena' refer to in the context of hypothesis testing?

    <p>Observations and data that are gathered from experiments.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Evolved Psychological Mechanisms

    • Evolved psychological mechanisms are sets of processes within an organism that solve specific survival or reproduction problems that reoccurred throughout evolutionary history.
    • These mechanisms are designed like a key to fit a specific lock, meaning their design features are specifically coordinated to solve a particular adaptive problem.
    • Failure to solve these adaptive problems resulted in the organism not surviving to reproduce and pass on its genes.
    • Mechanisms are designed to process only a narrow slice of information from a broad spectrum of potential input.
    • The human eye, for example, only processes a narrow range of electromagnetic waves within the visual spectrum.
    • Similarly, the evolved psychological mechanism of fear of snakes is designed to process only information about slithery movements.
    • The limited cues that activate each mechanism are those that recurred during the EEA (Environment of Evolutionary Adaptedness) or are closely mimicked in the modern environment.
    • These mechanisms tell an organism what adaptive problem it is facing.
    • The smell of a pizza baking unconsciously triggers food-selection mechanisms without conscious awareness of the adaptive problem.
    • The input of an evolved psychological mechanism is transformed via decision rules or procedures into output.
    • Upon seeing a snake, a person might decide to attack, run away, or freeze.
    • The output of an evolved psychological mechanism can be physiological activity, information to other psychological mechanisms, or manifest behavior.
    • Sexual jealousy, for example, can be triggered by cues that signal the threat of losing a romantic partner.
    • These cues act as input to the mechanism, signaling an adaptive problem.
    • The output of the sexual jealousy mechanism can be physiological (arousal), behavioral (confronting, threatening, or hitting), or input into other psychological mechanisms (reevaluating the status of the relationship).
    • The output is directed toward solving the specific adaptive problem.
    • Although the output is designed to solve problems, it does not mean that the solutions will always be successful.
    • The main point is that the output of the mechanism on average tends to solve the adaptive problem better than competing strategies in the environments in which it evolved.
    • An important consideration is that a mechanism that led to a successful solution in the evolutionary past may not be adaptive in the modern environment.
    • Our strong taste preferences for fat and sugar, for example, were adaptive in the past when these substances were scarce.
    • However, in modern environments, where fat and sugar are plentiful, these preferences can lead to health problems.
    • This mismatch between ancestral and modern environments highlights the importance of considering the evolutionary context when studying psychological mechanisms.
    • In summary, an evolved psychological mechanism is a set of procedures designed to take in a particular subset of information and transform that information via procedures and decision rules into output that has historically helped with the solution to an adaptive problem.

    Important Properties of Evolved Psychological Mechanisms

    • Evolved psychological mechanisms provide nonarbitrary criteria for “carving the mind at its natural joints”.
    • Understanding the component parts of the mind requires the identification of function.
    • Evolved psychological mechanisms tend to be problem specific.
    • Adaptive problems are specific, such as avoiding a dangerous situation, selecting a suitable mate, or eating food that is safe and nutritious.
    • There is no such thing as a general adaptive problem.
    • General solutions to specific adaptive problems are ineffective.
    • Humans possess many evolved psychological mechanisms.
    • Humans face a large number of adaptive problems, including survival, mating, parenting, and social interaction.
    • Just as the body contains many specialized and complex physiological and anatomical mechanisms, the mind also contains many specialized and complex mechanisms.
    • Because specific problems require specific solutions, numerous specific problems will require numerous specific solutions.
    • Just as our bodies contain thousands of specific mechanisms, the mind, according to this analysis, must also contain hundreds or thousands of specific mechanisms.
    • The specificity, complexity, and numerousness of evolved psychological mechanisms give humans behavioral flexibility.
    • Psychological mechanisms are not rigid "instincts" that invariably manifest in behavior.
    • The activation of mechanisms depends on input from the environment.
    • Decision rules are "if, then" procedures that permit at least several possible response options.
    • Humans gain their flexibility from having a large number of complex, specific, functional psychological mechanisms.
    • With each new mechanism that is added to the mind, an organism can perform a new task.
    • Having multiple specific adaptations gives an organism the flexibility to perform a wide range of behaviors.

    Beyond Domain-Specific Psychological Mechanisms

    • The arguments presented suggest that humans must possess a large number of specialized psychological mechanisms, each dedicated to solving specific adaptive problems.
    • This conclusion is widely accepted within the field of evolutionary psychology and indeed lies at the foundation of evolutionary approaches to all species.

    Domain-General Mechanisms

    • Evolutionary psychologists believe that humans have evolved specialized adaptations for specific problems but also domain-general mechanisms.
    • Some domain-general mechanisms are general intelligence, concept formation, analogical reasoning, working memory, and classical conditioning.
    • Domain-general mechanisms allow humans to solve novel problems and adapt to changing environments, which was crucial for human survival in the rapidly changing Pleistocene era.
    • Some evolutionary psychologists argue that “general intelligence” is a specific adaptation for solving novel problems.
    • The debate about whether truly domain-general mechanisms exist continues.

    Interactions Between Evolved Mechanisms

    • Evolved psychological mechanisms are not isolated but interact in complex ways.
    • Information from various mechanisms, like sight, smell, and hunger, feeds into decision-making processes.
    • Humans may have evolved superordinate mechanisms that regulate other mechanisms.

    Learning and Culture

    • Learning and culture are crucial for shaping human behavior but require and rely on evolved psychological mechanisms.
    • Evolutionary psychology challenges the nature versus nurture dichotomy; behavior arises from both.
    • Learning mechanisms are specialized for specific tasks, like learning to avoid incest or developing food aversions.
    • Prestige criteria are learned through observing the attention structures of social groups and imitating behaviors that gain status.

    Methods for Testing Evolutionary Hypotheses

    • Comparing different species allows for testing hypotheses about adaptive functions and observing how they evolve in response to different environments.
    • Cross-cultural methods are crucial for examining universal human adaptations and testing how adaptations respond to cultural and ecological variations.
    • Physiological and brain imaging methods help to identify the biological substrates of psychological adaptations and test hypotheses about their design features.
    • Genetic methods, like twin and adoption studies, can help to identify the heritability of traits and test hypotheses about how genetic factors contribute to adaptive behaviors.

    Behavioral and Molecular Genetic Methods

    • Behavioral genetic methods can help determine whether differences in female sexuality are influenced by environment or genetics.
    • Molecular genetic methods identify specific genes linked to adaptations.
    • DRD4 gene's 7R allele is associated with novelty seeking and extraversion and is more common in nomadic populations, suggesting an evolutionary advantage in adapting to new environments.
    • Molecular genetic methods have helped understand human evolution, including modern human origins, adaptations like lactose tolerance, and accelerated adaptive evolution in recent history.

    Comparing Sexes and Individuals

    • Sex differences offer insights into adaptations.
    • Paternity uncertainty is an adaptive problem for males, leading to adaptations like male sexual jealousy, a response to potential infidelity.
    • Comparisons between individuals within a species, like young vs. older women, can test hypotheses about reproductive strategies.
    • Comparing individuals with different social or economic positions can reveal adaptations related to resource acquisition and social protection.

    Comparing Individuals in Different Contexts

    • Observing individuals in different situations helps understand evolved psychological mechanisms.
    • Social status changes can influence behavior and social perception, demonstrating the role of psychological adaptations.

    Experimental Methods

    • Experiments manipulate situations to test hypotheses about adaptations.
    • Threat conditions can increase in-group cohesion, as demonstrated by resource allocation in experimental settings.

    Evolutionary Computer Simulations

    • Computer simulations can model and test the evolution of strategies, discovering which ones are most successful.
    • Euclidean algorithms in mate choice simulations demonstrate how realistic evolutionary models can predict real-world outcomes.
    • Agent-based models allow researchers to observe evolutionary processes in real-time and identify theoretical blind spots, leading to further research.

    Sources of Data for Evolutionary Research

    • Archeological records provide insights into past adaptations through analysis of fossils, artifacts, and environmental evidence.
    • Hunter-gatherer societies provide valuable data on social dynamics, resource acquisition, and reproductive strategies.
    • Systematic observations help confirm and refine hypotheses about adaptations.
    • Self-reports offer information about private experiences and psychological mechanisms, although prone to biases.
    • Life-history data and public records provide long-term perspectives on social patterns and adaptations across time periods.
    • Human products reflect evolved preferences and psychological mechanisms, aiding in hypothesis testing.

    Transcending Data Source Limitations

    • Multiple data sources are crucial for reliable and robust conclusions in evolutionary psychology.
    • Consistency among data sources strengthens the validity of findings, as different data sources have different limitations.

    Identifying Adaptive Problems

    • Identifying all human adaptive problems is a complex and ongoing task due to the evolutionary history and constant adaptation.

    • Guidelines based on existing knowledge and observations help guide the identification of adaptive problems.### Guidance From Modern Evolutionary Theory

    • Evolutionary theory helps understand adaptive problems, which are things required for reproduction or aid in reproduction.

    • Four classes of adaptive problems are survival and growth, mating, parenting, and aiding related genes

    Guidance From Knowledge of Universal Human Structures

    • Humans live in groups which poses adaptive problems like being included and not ostracized.
    • Group living leads to competition for resources and social hierarchies for access to resources.

    Guidance From Traditional Societies

    • Hunter-gatherer societies provide clues about our ancestors' adaptive problems.
    • Traditional societies are similar to the conditions under which humans evolved.
    • Hunting large game required cooperation and coordination for successful survival.

    Guidance From Paleoarcheology and Paleoanthropology

    • Analysis of ancestral remains, teeth, and skeletal fractures reveal information about the ancestral diet and survival challenges.

    Guidance From Current Mechanisms

    • Phobias of snakes, spiders, heights, darkness and strange men are rooted in ancestral survival problems.
    • Sexual jealousy suggests that our ancestors were not sexually faithful.

    Guidance From Task Analysis

    • Task analysis identifies cognitive procedures and tasks required for observed structures or phenomena.
    • Kin recognition and gauging kinship are examples of adaptive problems addressed by task analysis.

    Organization of Adaptive Problems

    • The book focuses on survival, mating, parenting, kin relations, and larger social spheres.

    Summary

    • Evolutionary theory provides a framework for understanding adaptive problems and the psychological mechanisms that evolved to solve them.
    • Two methods for generating hypotheses include "top-down" approach using evolutionary theory and the "bottom-up" approach that starts with a phenomenon and generates hypotheses.
    • Evolutionary processes produce adaptations, by-products of adaptations, and random effects.
    • Evolved psychological mechanisms take in information, process it and generate outputs in the form of behavior or physiological changes.
    • Different methods for testing hypotheses include cross-cultural, experimental, physiological, and computer simulations.
    • Multiple data sources provide a stronger foundation for testing hypotheses than a single source.
    • Adaptive problems can be identified by examining tasks in traditional cultures, such as food acquisition, predator avoidance, and child protection.

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    Test your knowledge on evolved psychological mechanisms and their primary characteristics. This quiz will help you understand the foundational concepts in evolutionary psychology. Perfect for psychology students looking to deepen their understanding.

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