Final answer:
The evolutionary theory component that explains different mate selection priorities in men and women is based on sociobiological perspectives that relate to gender-specific roles and reproductive strategies, shaped by the historical division of labor between genders and supported by functionalism. Conflict theory provides a perspective on how these roles manifest in social power dynamics.
Step-by-step explanation:
The component of evolutionary theory that suggests that women and men have different mate selection priorities due to their unequal roles and responsibilities in producing and caring for children is best explained by the subfield of biology known as sociobiology. Sociobiologists argue that gender-specific evolutionary strategies have developed, with men evolving to be strong and aggressive to compete for status and mate with multiple females, while women evolved to be nurturing and to seek long-term monogamous relationships for security and sustenance for their children. These roles are historically based on men being hunters and providers and women being caregivers and focused on domestic responsibilities.
According to functionalism, the division of labor by gender has been established to maintain the balance and functionality of the family system. Men took on instrumental roles working outside the home, while women assumed expressive roles inside the home, focusing on childcare and emotional support. This view aligns with the concept that gender roles were functional during pre-industrial times and were passed to subsequent generations.
Conflict theory offers a different perspective, viewing society as a struggle for dominance among social groups. Within this framework, gender roles and inequalities are understood as a result of dominant groups (men) exploiting or oppressing subordinate groups (women) to maintain power and control over scarce resources.