Definition of Evolutionary Psychology

Evolutionary psychology is a branch of psychology that utilizes an evolutionary perspective to understand human behavior and cognition. It seeks to explain how certain mental and behavioral traits have evolved over time through the process of natural selection. This field of study explores how evolutionary pressures and adaptations have shaped human psychology, with the belief that many facets of our behavior can be attributed to mechanisms that promoted survival and reproductive success in our ancestral past.

Evolutionary Perspective

The evolutionary perspective refers to the overarching framework through which evolutionary psychologists analyze human behavior and cognition. It involves considering how evolutionary forces, such as genetic variation, selection, and adaptation, have influenced the development of psychological processes and traits. This perspective assumes that human behavior and cognitive abilities are products of natural selection, shaped by the challenges faced by our ancestors.