TY - JOUR PY - 2021// TI - Life history theory: evolutionary mechanisms and gender role on risk-taking behaviors in young adults JO - Personality and individual differences A1 - Salas-Rodríguez, Javier A1 - Gómez-Jacinto, Luis A1 - Hombrados-Mendieta, María Isabel SP - e110752 EP - e110752 VL - 175 IS - N2 - Evolutionary psychology considers the human mind to be composed of multiple specific mechanisms with specific adaptive purposes. This evolutionary approach is in line with the domain-specific view of risk-taking behaviors. Based on the theoretical framework of Life History Theory, the present study analyzes the moderating effect of gender and the mediating effect of evolutionary domain-specific risks in young adult Spaniards (432 participants). K-factor, measured through the Mini-K, was used as an indicator of life history strategy (LHS). Evolutionary domain-specific risks were measured through the Evolutionary Domain-Specific Risk Scale and risk-taking behaviors through the Risky Behavior Questionnaire.

RESULTS showed an interaction effect between gender and LHS for rule breaking. Evolutionary domain-specific risks had a mediation effect between LHS and risk-taking behaviors, mainly through mate attraction. These results highlight the different effects of LHS on risk-taking behaviors based on gender and the impact of evolutionary mechanisms. It is, therefore, necessary to consider an evolutionary approach on intervention programs aimed at reducing risk-taking behaviors in young adults.

Language: en

LA - en SN - 0191-8869 UR - http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.paid.2021.110752 ID - ref1 ER -