The self-reported importance of olfaction during human mate choice

Article

Sergeant, Mark J.T., Davies, M., Dickins, Thomas E. and Griffiths, Mark D. 2005. The self-reported importance of olfaction during human mate choice. Sexualities, Evolution and Gender. 7 (3), pp. 199-213.
AuthorsSergeant, Mark J.T., Davies, M., Dickins, Thomas E. and Griffiths, Mark D.
Abstract

This study evaluated sex differences in the relative importance placed on olfactory cues
during mate choice. To evaluate this 151 men and 289 women completed an on-line version of the Romantic Interests Survey (RIS) (Herz & Inzlict, 2002). Olfactory characteristics were declared to be extremely important during mate selection, more so than almost all other characteristics, but did not significantly differ between the sexes.
There were significant differences concerning the odour source that individuals attend to, with greater preferences observed for a potential mate’s body odour as opposed to artificial fragrances they use. These findings suggest the body odour characteristics of a potential mate are perceived to be an important factor during mate choice.

KeywordsOlfaction; mate choice; sex differences; parental investment
JournalSexualities, Evolution and Gender
Journal citation7 (3), pp. 199-213
ISSN1479-2508
1479-2516
Year2005
Accepted author manuscript
License
CC BY-ND
Web address (URL)http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/14616660500173685
http://hdl.handle.net/10552/571
Publication dates
PrintDec 2005
Publication process dates
Deposited09 Feb 2010
Additional information

Citation:
Sergeant, M.J.T. et al (2005) ‘The self-reported importance of olfaction during human mate choice.’ Sexualities, Evolution and Gender 7 (3) 199 – 213.

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Accepted author manuscript
Sergeant, MJT (2005) SEG 7 (3) 199_213.pdf
License: CC BY-ND

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