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Parsimony and basic principles in human “romantic” relationships
Published online by Cambridge University Press: 01 June 2026
Abstract
Compared to women, men seek romantic relationships more, benefit more from said relationships, are less likely to initiate breakups, and suffer more afterwards.
Explanations based on the availability of emotional support are unnecessary. The four patterns can be explained more parsimoniously by sexual selection, which is applicable to all life forms, including humans, and by family law in WEIRD societies.
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- © The Author(s), 2026. Published by Cambridge University Press
References
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Target article
Romantic Relationships Matter More to Men than to Women
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Author response
Understanding gender differences across relationship stages requires integrating evolutionary, ontological, and proximate mechanisms