Infradian Rhythms AO3

Question 1

✅ What evolutionary benefit might menstrual synchrony offer?

Answer 1

It could have allowed collective childrearing, increasing offspring survival and promoting cooperation within female groups—an evolutionary advantage.

Question 2

✅ How does the menstrual cycle influence mate choice?

Answer 2

Penton-Voak et al. (1999) found that women prefer masculine faces during ovulation, and feminine faces outside it. This supports an evolutionary perspective—seeking “good genes” vs. nurturing partners.

Question 3

❌ What methodological issue affects pheromone research?

Answer 3

Pheromones in Stern & McClintock’s study were applied artificially (e.g., to upper lips), which is not reflective of real-life pheromone exposure, reducing ecological validity.

Question 4

❌ Why might menstrual synchrony findings lack validity?

Answer 4

Studies like Stern & McClintock (1998) may be confounded by stress, diet, or chance. Wilson (1992) reanalyzed data and found no statistically significant synchrony.