Florida Atlantic University

PSY 4810

Essay questions

1)What are the basic assumptions of evolutionary psychology? What do the proponents of evolutionary psychology say the field contributes to our understanding of the human condition?

2. Does evolutionary psychology imply a form of genetic determinism? Why or why not?

3. Discuss how pregnancy sickness might be considered an evolutionary adaptation.

4. Describe the evolution of Homo sapiens over the past 5 million years.

5. Provide a detailed definition of evolved psychological mechanism (i.e., what are its properties, characteristics, etc.) as proposed by evolutionary psychology. Demonstrate a human trait that fits your definition.

6. What are some methods commonly used for testing evolutionary hypotheses? What are some common data sources used when testing evolutionary hypotheses?

7. How might some forms of psychopathology or “negative” emotions (e.g., anger) actually be beneficial to humans?