According to David Buss, which of the following best explains the primary focus of evolutionary psychology?

• A. Exploring how cultural factors influence personality development
• B. Understanding how natural selection has shaped psychological mechanisms to solve adaptive problems
• C. Investigating the role of neurotransmitters in mental disorders
• D. Examining the impact of early childhood experiences on adult behavior

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the core concept of evolutionary psychology, which is centered on how evolutionary processes influence human behavior and mental processes.
2. Understand that David Buss, a prominent evolutionary psychologist, emphasizes the role of natural selection in shaping psychological traits.
3. Recognize that evolutionary psychology focuses on psychological mechanisms that have evolved to solve adaptive problems faced by our ancestors.
4. Compare the given options to see which aligns with this focus: cultural influences, neurotransmitters, early experiences, or natural selection shaping psychological mechanisms.
5. Conclude that the best explanation is the one highlighting natural selection's role in shaping psychological mechanisms to solve adaptive problems.