Put a (Limbal) Ring On It: Women Perceive Mens Limbal Rings as a Health Cue in Short-Term Mating Domains
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-2018
School
Psychology
Abstract
Limbal rings are dark annuli encircling the iris that fluctuate in visibility based on health and age. Research also indicates their presence augments facial attractiveness. Given individuals’ prioritization of health cues in short-term mates, those with limbal rings may be implicated as ideal short-term mates. Three studies tested whether limbal rings serve as veridical health cues, specifically the extent to which this cue enhances a person’s value as a short-term mating partner. In Study 1, targets with limbal rings were rated as healthier, an effect that was stronger for female participants and male targets. In Study 2, temporally activated short-term mating motives led women to report a heightened preference for targets with limbal rings. In Study 3, women rated targets with limbal rings as more desirable short-term mates. Results provide evidence for limbal rings as veridical cues to health, particularly in relevant mating domains.
Publication Title
Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin
Volume
44
Issue
1
First Page
80
Last Page
91
Recommended Citation
Brown, M.,
Sacco, D. F.
(2018). Put a (Limbal) Ring On It: Women Perceive Mens Limbal Rings as a Health Cue in Short-Term Mating Domains. Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, 44(1), 80-91.
Available at: https://aquila.usm.edu/fac_pubs/16795