Behavioral and Brain Sciences

Table of Contents - April 2012 - Volume 35, Issue 02  

Open Peer Commentary

Rethinking innovative designs to further test parasite-stress theory

Ayse K. Uskula1

a1 Department of Psychology, University of Essex, Wivenhoe Park, Colchester CO4 3SQ, United Kingdom. auskul@essex.ac.uk http://www.essex.ac.uk/psychology/department/people/uskul.html

Abstract

Fincher & Thornhill's (F&T's) parasite-stress theory of sociality is supported largely by correlational evidence; its persuasiveness would increase significantly via lab and natural experiments and demonstrations of its mediating role. How the theory is linked to other approaches to group differences in psychological differences and to production and dissemination of cultural ideas and practices, need further clarification. So does the theory's view on the possible reduction of negative group interactions.

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