Variable Preferences for Sexual Dimorphism in Stature (SDS) Might Not Be Universal: Data From a Semi-Nomad Population (Himba) in Namibia

In Western societies women prefer relatively taller men as potential partners, whereas men prefer women to be slightly shorter than them. Here we report data on relative height preferences in a traditional ethnic group, i.e. the Himba, in which men and women do not show such a strong preference. Thu...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of cross-cultural psychology 2012-01, Vol.43 (1), p.32-37
Main Authors: Sorokowski, Piotr, Sorokowska, Agnieszka, Fink, Bernhard, Mberira, Mara
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Attitudes
Cross cultural studies
Culture
Ecology
Environment
Ethnic groups
Height
Interpersonal attraction
Men
Minority & ethnic groups
Namibia
Nomads
Physical appearance
Preferences
Sex roles
Women
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Summary:In Western societies women prefer relatively taller men as potential partners, whereas men prefer women to be slightly shorter than them. Here we report data on relative height preferences in a traditional ethnic group, i.e. the Himba, in which men and women do not show such a strong preference. Thus our data challenges the view of a universal preference for taller men, by suggesting that height preferences may be influenced by environmental and ecological conditions.
ISSN:0022-0221
1552-5422
DOI:10.1177/0022022110395140