The development of human female competition: allies and adversaries.

Bibliographic Collection: 
APE
Publication Type: Journal Article
Authors: Benenson, Joyce F
Year of Publication: 2013
Journal: Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci
Volume: 368
Issue: 1631
Pagination: 20130079
Date Published: 2013
Publication Language: eng
ISSN: 1471-2970
Keywords: Competitive Behavior, Family, Female, Humans, Residence Characteristics, Socioeconomic Factors
Abstract:

Throughout their lives, women provide for their own and their children's and grandchildren's needs and thus must minimize their risk of incurring physical harm. Alliances with individuals who will assist them in attaining these goals increase their probability of survival and reproductive success. High status in the community enhances access to physical resources and valuable allies. Kin, a mate, and affines share a mother's genetic interests, whereas unrelated women constitute primary competitors. From early childhood onwards, girls compete using strategies that minimize the risk of retaliation and reduce the strength of other girls. Girls' competitive strategies include avoiding direct interference with another girl's goals, disguising competition, competing overtly only from a position of high status in the community, enforcing equality within the female community and socially excluding other girls.

DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2013.0079
Alternate Journal: Philos. Trans. R. Soc. Lond., B, Biol. Sci.