Mating Intelligence, Machiavellianism, and Self-Monitoring as Predictors of the Recognition of and Participation in Behaviors Associated with Mental Fitness Indicators

Abstract

Miller (2000) and Buss (2004) suggest that the human mind has evolved its complex qualities to make beneficial mating decisions for the individual and, more generally, to attract and retain mates. According to Miller (2000), mental fitness indicators are the outward displays of the complexity of a person’s brain. Mental fitness indicators are expressed in the form of artistic, musical, communication, and altruistic behaviors. The present study examined mating intelligence, which is the ability of people to make adaptive mating choices (Geher, Murphy & Miller, 2007), Machiavellianism, and selfmonitoring as possible predictors of an individual’s ability to recognize potential fitness indicators that are valued by potential mates and his or her participation in behaviors associated with mental fitness indicators. It was hypothesized that mating intelligence, Machiavellianism and self-monitoring would be positively related to an individual’s recognition and engagement in behaviors associated with mental fitness indicators. The results suggest that mating intelligence is related to an individual’s ability to recognize the artistic, musical, communication, and altruistic behaviors that are desired by potential mates. Future studies should be conducted to examine the complex relationships between mental fitness indicators and personality constructs.