Pluralistic Mating Strategies: Examining sexual orientation with CNM, jealousy, sex drive, and sociosexuality

Abstract

Is sexual orientation correlated with sociosexuality, sex drive, or preferences for non-monogamy? Can orientation predict one’s perceptions of jealousy toward emotional or sexual infidelity? Evolutionary theory in psychology has traditionally examined mating strategies, sociosexuality, and sex drive from a heterosexual and monogamous perspective, focusing on reproductive advantages. However, sexual orientation, mating strategies, and relationship preferences do not exist in such a strict dichotomy. Previous sociosexuality research suggests that heterosexual and homosexual individuals of the same gender respond similarly to measures of sex difference. Bisexuality may play a significant role in gender differences presented, though researchers often exclude bisexual populations from studies. In particular, bisexual women tend to exhibit more permissive sociosexual attitudes and behaviour. Research also suggests that individuals who identify as either monogamous or consensually non-monogamous differ significantly in their sociosexuality, mating strategies, and mate-retention behaviours. Sexual and relationship orientations may affect how someone perceives jealousy toward sexual or emotional infidelity. Studies show consistent sex differences in jealousy toward infidelity, though how bisexuality or consensual non-monogamy affects these relationships remains to be explored. The current study will examine how sexual orientation correlates with sociosexuality, sex drive, and preferences for consensual non-monogamy. This research will also explore how orientation predicts jealousy toward sexual and emotional infidelity. The study aims to replicate and extend previous research findings into a more diverse pool of participants and improve minority representation within research. This research will investigate the potential evolutionary advantages of pluralistic sexual orientation and mating strategies.

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Lynne Honey