The influence of time resources on mate selection: The moderating role of mating strategies and gender

Abstract This study aims to extend the content of resources to time and explore the influence of time resources on mate selection decision, in addition, clarify the role of gender and mate selection strategy in it. In this study, 24 college students and 32 pairs of romantic partners were recruited for two experiments that used the interview method and the information board paradigm, and preferences for mate selection cues under different time resources and mating strategies were investigated. The results showed that (1) in mate selection, the “3G traits” of women's preferences were health, regular facial features, height, kindness, filial piety, a sense of responsibility, the ability to work, a desire to advance, and career prospects, while men's mating preferences were for health, regular facial features, being neat and easy, kindness, sincerity, tolerance, positivity, a desire to advance, and women having their own pursuits. (2) Time resources had an impact on both men's and women's processing of mate selection cues. When time resources were sufficient, individuals focused on more diverse traits. (3) Mating strategies and gender moderated the influence of time resources on mate selection.