Sexual Dimorphism in Stature (SDS), Jealousy and Mate Retention

• Main Authors: Gayle Brewer, Charlene Riley
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: SAGE Publishing 2010-10-01
• Series: Evolutionary Psychology
• Online Access: https://doi.org/10.1177/147470491000800401

Previous research has investigated the manner in which absolute height impacts on jealousy and mate retention. Although relative height is also important, little information exists about the potential influence of sexual dimorphism in stature (SDS) within established relationships. The current study investigated the relationship between SDS and the satisfaction, jealousy and mate retention behaviors reported by men and women. Heterosexual men ( n = 98) and women ( n = 102) completed a questionnaire. Men in high SDS relationships reported the lowest levels of cognitive and behavioral jealousy, although the impact of SDS on relationship satisfaction was less clear. SDS was not associated with the overall use of mate retention strategies; SDS did however affect the use of three specific strategies (vigilance, monopolization of time, love and care). SDS did not affect women's relationship satisfaction, jealousy (cognitive, behavioral, or emotional) or the use of mate retention strategies (with the exception of resource display).