In evolutionary psychology, youthfulness, characterized by such factors as vigor, flexibility, bounciness, smooth body surfaces, babyfaceness, etc., is one of a number of traits, including averageness and symmetry, associated with health, physical attractiveness and beauty of a person or animal.[1] It is also hypothesized as a factor in both interpersonal attraction and interpersonal chemistry. In short, the one factor that has universal appeal is youthfulness. Youthfulness generally is associated with fertility. Men and women, however, have different fertility curves; subsequently, men and women age differently. Men, in some cases can continue to reproduce into their 70s, whereas for women, it is generally difficult to conceive past age 45. Outward physical appearance tends to exemplify inner fertility levels. In the early 20s, for example, the female breasts have become fully swollen, but have not yet begun to sag. Similarly, the age of maximum fecundity for the female, i.e. the age at which she is most likely to be successful at bringing her fetus to term is age 22.[2] In terms of mate trait desireabilities, aside from such common wants such as sincerity and faithfulness, "youthfulness" tops the list for men, whereas with women "economic capacity" is the highest rated.[3]
References
- ^ Rhodes, Gillian; Zebrowitz, Leslie, A. (2002). Facial Attractiveness - Evolutionary, Cognitive, and Social Perspectives. Ablex. ISBN 1567506364.
- ^ Morris, Desmond (1997). The Human Sexes – A Natural History of Man and Woman. St. Martin’s Press. ISBN 0312183119.
- ^ Buss, David (1994). The Evolution of Desire. Basic Books. ISBN 0465021433.
External links
- Babyfaceness – Beauty Check
