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Published on: November 6, 2014
2D:4D and sexually dimorphic facial characteristics
Robert P Burriss1, Anthony C Little, Emma C Nelson
1School of Biological Sciences, The University of Liverpool, Biosciences Building, Crown Street, Liverpool, L69 7ZB England. rob@oraclelab.co.uk
Archives of Sexual Behavior
|January 5, 2007
Summary
The second-to-fourth-digit ratio (2D:4D), linked to prenatal hormones, correlates with specific facial features like nose width and jaw angle. These sexually dimorphic traits influence perceived dominance, particularly in women.
Area of Science:
- Anthropology
- Evolutionary Biology
- Human Biology
Background:
- The second-to-fourth-digit ratio (2D:4D) is a proposed marker for prenatal hormone exposure.
- Previous research suggests 2D:4D correlates with perceived facial masculinity and dominance, but not objective facial metrics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between localized facial morphology, perceived dominance, and 2D:4D ratios.
- To identify sexually dimorphic facial features and their association with dominance ratings and 2D:4D.
Main Methods:
- Examined localized facial features (nose width, jaw angle, lip height) for sexual dimorphism.
- Collected dominance ratings for facial images.
- Measured 2D:4D ratios using three distinct techniques.
Main Results:
- Nose width, jaw angle, and lip height were found to be sexually dimorphic.
- Sexually dimorphic facial characteristics were strongly associated with perceived dominance.
- High (feminine) 2D:4D ratios correlated with feminine facial features in women, but not in men.
Conclusions:
- Specific facial developmental aspects are influenced by prenatal factors, as indicated by 2D:4D.
- These prenatal influences on facial features may impact social perceptions, including mate acquisition and competition.
