Final answer:
Men's higher valuation of youthful appearance may stem from evolutionary factors related to fertility indicators and cultural biases that associate youth with positive traits like sexuality and health. Cultural and universally attractive features reinforce this preference.
Step-by-step explanation:
A study by Buss (1989) spanning 37 cultures found that men tend to value youthful appearance more than women. This preference can be attributed to several factors, including evolutionary pressures and cultural influences. Evolutionarily, youthful features in women can be indicators of fertility and health, which are traits that males have evolved to seek out in potential mates for reproductive success. Additionally, certain universally attractive features such as large eyes and high cheekbones are associated with youth. Culturally, societies like the United States place a high value on youth, which is often equated with traits like innocence, purity, and sexuality. Men may also be less choosy than women because, in many species, females are more selective when it comes to choosing mates. Cultural diversity, the value of individuality, and other social traits like warmth and social skills also play a role in mate preference.