Question

Evolutionary psychologists would be most likely to predict that

a. more people are biologically predisposed to fear guns than to fear snakes
b. children are more likely to be valued by their biological fathers than by their stepfathers
c. people are the most romantically attracted to those who are the most genetically dissimilar to themselves
d. genetic predispositions have little effect on our social relationships
e. environmental influences are more deterministic than genetic influences

Answer 1

Evolutionary psychologists would be most likely to predict that children are more likely to be valued by their biological fathers than by their stepfathers, thus the correct option is b.

Explanation:

Evolutionary psychologists argue that human behavior and relationships are shaped by our evolutionary history. In this case, they would predict that children would be more valued by their biological fathers due to the evolutionary drive to pass on one's genes to the next generation. This is known as the 'kin selection' theory, which suggests that individuals are more likely to invest in and protect their biological offspring as they carry a greater percentage of their genes compared to stepchildren.

Furthermore, evolutionary psychologists also point to the concept of 'parental investment.' This refers to the resources, time, and effort that parents put into raising their offspring. According to evolutionary theory, individuals are more likely to invest in their biological children as it increases their chances of passing on their genes to future generations. In contrast, stepfathers may not have the same level of investment in their stepchildren as they do not share the same genetic connection.

Moreover, evolutionary psychologists also argue that humans have evolved to form strong bonds with their biological family members, including fathers and children. These bonds are believed to have evolved as a means of survival, as individuals who had strong relationships with their family were more likely to receive support and protection, increasing their chances of survival and reproductive success.

In conclusion, evolutionary psychologists would predict that children are more likely to be valued by their biological fathers than by their stepfathers due to the evolutionary drive to pass on one's genes and invest in their biological offspring. This prediction is supported by various evolutionary theories such as kin selection, parental investment, and the evolution of strong family bonds, thus the correct option is b.