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Heterosexual Rejection and Mate Choice: A Sociometer Perspective
Lin Zhang1, Shen Liu1, Yue Li1
1Department and Institute of Psychology, Ningbo University Ningbo, China ; Social Cognition and Behavior Laboratory, Ningbo University Ningbo, China.
Frontiers in Psychology
|December 10, 2015
Summary
Social rejection lowers self-perceived mate value and mating intentions. Self-perceived mate value mediates rejection
Area of Science:
- Social Psychology
- Evolutionary Psychology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Social rejection's impact on social behaviors yields mixed results.
- Mating behaviors are often studied statically, yet mate selection is dynamic.
- Sociometer theory offers a new perspective on mating dynamics.
Purpose of the Study:
- Examine heterosexual rejection's effects on mate choice.
- Investigate self-perceived mate value as a mediator.
- Apply sociometer theory to understand mating behaviors post-rejection.
Main Methods:
- Two experiments were conducted.
- Examined the mediating role of self-perceived mate value.
- Assessed effects of heterosexual rejection and acceptance on mate choice.
Main Results:
- Heterosexual rejection significantly reduced self-perceived mate value, expectations, and behavioral tendencies.
- Heterosexual acceptance increased these measures.
- Self-perceived mate value mediated rejection's effect on mating behavior tendencies, not mate expectations.
Conclusions:
- Social rejection impacts mate choice through reduced self-perceived mate value and behavioral shifts.
- Individuals experiencing rejection tend to avoid both rejection and unfamiliar individuals.
- Sociometer theory provides a framework for understanding dynamic mating processes.
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