The study of the roots of behavior and mental processes using natural selection is known as which perspective?

• A. Evolutionary perspective
• B. Feeding and eating disorders
• C. Flat affect
• D. Dissociative identity disorder

Answer: (A)

Think about why a behavior or mental process exists in terms of what helped our ancestors survive and pass on their genes. The evolutionary perspective in psychology explains behavior and mental processes through natural selection and adaptation. It asks how a trait or tendency might have increased chances of survival or reproduction, leading to patterns that show up across different cultures and even species. For example, quick fear responses to potential threats or cooperative tendencies can be understood as adaptive traits shaped by evolution. This view focuses on function and the historical context in which these traits were useful, rather than just immediate causes like learning or current environment. The other terms refer to specific disorders or symptoms, not a lens for studying behavior.