engleski

Relationship between second to fourth digit ratio and sexual behavior

Second to fourth digit ratio (2D:4D), as well as the difference between 2D:4D in the right and in the left hand (D), are assumed to be indicators of prenatal testosterone exposure, with lower 2D:4D and D reflecting higher exposure. Previous studies have found that lower ratio was a negative correlate of sex drive and number of sexual partners in men. Research of the relationship between sex drive and 2D:4D in women produced less consistent results. While some studies found a negative relationship, others reported no significant associations. Therefore, the aim of this study was to further investigate possible associations between women’s 2D:4D and some aspects of sexual behavior, including sociosexuality and relative number of sexual partners. Thirty two heterosexual women, aged between 18 and 22, participated in this study. Finger measurements were made from photocopies of the ventral surface of both hands, using digital vernier caliper. To assess willingness to engage in casual sex, Sociosexual Orientation Inventory (SOI, Simpson and Gangestad, 1991) was used. Women also reported their age of the first sexual intercourse and number of sexual partners in a lifetime. Result showed positive relationship between 2D:4D in right hand and relative number of sexual partners. This relationship was not found for the left hand, which is in line with previous research which showed that many 2D:4D associations were stronger for right, rather than left hand. Furthermore, results showed positive relationship between the SOI score and D. In general, results imply that lower exposure to prenatal testosterone is associated with greater number of sexual partners and willingness to engage in casual sex. This is contradictory to the previous findings in men. However, these preliminary results could imply different androgen effects on sexual behavior in men and women. Therefore, future research is recommended.

digit ratio; sociosexuality; sexual behavior

nije evidentirano