Exploring the Concept of Parental Investment from an Evolutionary Psychology Perspective with an Emphasis on Investment Strategies for Adoptive Families: A Review of the Literature

Abstract

Parental investment plays a crucial role in shaping children's well-being and development. While the parental investment of biological parents has been extensively studied, the dynamics of parental investment in adoptive parents have received increasing attention. The purpose of this paper is to explore key concepts and principles related to parental investment in adoptive parents, focusing on cultural beliefs and values, attachment and bonding processes, perceptions of genetic relatedness, adoptive parents' experiences and motivations, and support networks and resources. By examining these factors, this paper seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of parental investment in different family settings. And understanding the evolutionary origins and adaptive significance of adoptive parental investment in the context of adoption will contribute to a deeper understanding of human parental behavior and its impact on child well-being.