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The association between 2D:4D ratios and sociosexuality: a failure to replicate
Nora E Charles1, Gerianne M Alexander
1Department of Psychology, Texas A&M University, College Station, 77843, USA. nora26@tamu.edu
Archives of Sexual Behavior
|January 5, 2011
Summary
Prenatal androgen exposure, indicated by digit ratio, does not predict sociosexuality. This study found no link between 2D:4D ratios, hormones, and interest in uncommitted sexual activity in men or women.
Area of Science:
- Evolutionary Psychology
- Human Sexuality
- Biological Psychology
Background:
- Previous research suggested prenatal androgen exposure influences sociosexuality.
- The 2D:4D digit ratio is used as a proxy for prenatal androgen action.
- This link has significant implications for understanding human mating behavior and sex differences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To replicate and extend the investigation into the association between the 2D:4D digit ratio and sociosexuality.
- To examine the potential moderating roles of menstrual cycle phase and circulating hormone levels.
Main Methods:
- Two studies were conducted. The first replicated the original methodology.
- The second study measured salivary hormone levels and behaviors across different menstrual cycle phases in women and at two time points in men.
- Participants included women (n=65) and men (n=67).
Main Results:
- No significant association was found between 2D:4D ratios and sociosexuality scores in either study.
- Circulating hormone levels and 2D:4D ratios were unrelated to sociosexuality measures.
- Sex differences in hormone levels and behavior were observed as expected.
Conclusions:
- The findings do not support a link between prenatal androgen action (2D:4D ratio) and sociosexuality.
- Circulating hormones do not appear to mediate this relationship.
- Factors beyond prenatal and circulating hormones likely explain sex differences in sociosexuality.
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