Does Women's Hair Signal Reproductive Potential?

• Published in: Journal of experimental social psychology Vol. 37; no. 2; pp. 166 - 172
• Main Authors: Hinsz, Verlin B., Matz, David C., Patience, Rebecca A.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: San Diego, CA Elsevier Inc 01.03.2001; Elsevier; Academic Press
• Subjects: Biological and medical sciences; Fertility; Fundamental and applied biological sciences. Psychology; Hair; Psychology. Psychoanalysis. Psychiatry; Psychology. Psychophysiology; Social interactions. Communication. Group processes; Social psychology; Women; Belief; Human; Attitude; Physical attraction; Mate selection; Personality; Hair (head); Sexual attraction; Social interaction; Self image; Female; Reproductive potential; Interpersonal relation
• ISSN: 0022-1031; 1096-0465
• DOI: 10.1006/jesp.2000.1450

This study explores the possibility that women's hair signals their reproductive potential. Evolutionary psychology and related approaches are considered as rationales for the belief that women's hair is a signal for mate selection and attraction. A sample of women were approached in public places and surveyed as to their age, hair quality, marital status, hair length, children, and overall health. A significant correlation between hair length and age indicated that younger women tend to have longer hair than older women. Hair quality was correlated with women's health. Consistent with the principle of intersexual selection, the results of this study indicate that hair length and quality can act as a cue to a woman's youth and health and, as such, signify reproductive potential. Future directions for research on women's hair are discussed.