Sex, Personality, and Mate Preferences

Abstract

In this study, we examined demographic, ideological, and personality difference correlates of ratings of 27 characteristics in a potential mate. In all, 288 mainly middle-aged adults completed two questionnaires: one assessing personality (high potential trait indicator) and one on mate preference (Mate Preferences Scale). Sex differences, where p< .001 and d > 0.40, revealed only one on personality (competitiveness) but five other factors (attractiveness, earnings, emotional stability, height, and sexiness) in line with previous studies. Correlations indicated that participant trait ambiguity tolerance and competitiveness (low agreeableness) were most closely related to mate choices and preferences for normality, good genes, and religious compatibility. A factor analysis of the ratings indicated five interpretable factors. Regressions, with the mate choice factors as criterion and demography, ideology, and the six traits as predictor variables demonstrated many of the traits related to mate preference ratings. Implications and limitations are noted.

Sex, Personality, and Mate Preferences