An Agent-Based Model of Sex and Sexual Orientation Differences in Short-Term Mating Behaviors as a Result of Mating Preferences

Abstract

Sex differences in short-term mating behaviors are well-documented in human sexuality research. Existing studies usually explain sex differences in sexual behaviors through differences in mating preferences, which is theoretically problematic. Using an agent-based model, we investigated the circumstances under which males' and females' differential preferences for short-term mating would result in sex differences in short-term mating behaviors. The model showed that when all individuals in a closed heterosexual population were considered, males and females had the same average number of short-term mating experiences and short-term mates even when males had stronger preferences for short-term mating. Males (vs. females) had a higher average number of both experiences and mates when analyses were limited to only heterosexual males and females who successfully participated in the mating pool (i.e., those with a non-zero number of short-term mating experiences). Moreover, when males (vs. females) had stronger preferences for short-term mating, gay males had a higher average number of experiences and mates compared to both lesbian females and heterosexual males. These results suggest that even when sex differences in mating preferences exist, the sex differences in shortterm mating behaviors only occur among particular populations, or when males' preferences for short-term mating are not constrained by those of females. Suggestions for future research in human mating psychology and behaviors were provided.

An Experiment Using a Sexual Strategies Explanation to Alleviate Internalized Homophobia Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in China

“…These are in line with previous studies that MSM experiences more mental distress than other populations and that IH is positively correlated with mental distress ( Heiden-Rootes et al, 2018 ; Meyer, 1995 , 2003 ). It may be because some people view sex between men, especially the tendency to have more casual sex or sexual partners ( Ying et al, 2023 ), as a sign of losing control over sexual behaviors leading to an aversion to MSM ( Kraus et al, 2016 ). Some MSM may internalize these negative and pathologizing attitudes, increasing the likelihood and extent of IH, causing mental distress such as anxiety and depression ( Heiden-Rootes et al, 2018 ; Meyer, 1995 , 2003 ).…”

“…Also, IH is associated with more risky sexual behaviors, such as having unprotected sex ( Emlet et al, 2015 ; Parmenter et al, 2019 ). MSM on average engage in more sexual activities ( Ying et al, 2023 ) and have more sexual partners during their lifetime ( Glick et al, 2012 ). One message MSM may internalize is this behavioral pattern signaling a lack of control over their sexual behaviors ( Pinsof & Haselton, 2016 , 2017 ; Reddick et al, 2016 ).…”