Bodyguard Hypothesis
Women form alliances for protection
The Bodyguard Hypothesis proposes that women form heterosexual pair-bonds with men in part to reduce their risk of sexual aggression from other men. This hypothesis suggests that women should be especially attracted to physically large and socially dominant men as mates, as they can provide protection from potential threats.
- Women prioritize protection in their mate choice
- Physically formidable men can provide protection from potential threats
- Women's mate preferences are influenced by the risk of sexual aggression
- Assess the risk of sexual aggressionWomen should assess the risk of sexual aggression in their environment and choose mates who can provide protection.Pro tipWomen should prioritize mates with physical and social dominanceWarningWomen should be cautious of men who do not prioritize their protection and well-being
- Form alliances with protective menWomen should form alliances with men who can provide protection, such as physically formidable men or men with high social status.Pro tipWomen should communicate their needs and boundaries clearly to their partnersWarningWomen should be aware of the potential risks of relying solely on one partner for protection
- Cultivate female friendshipsWomen should cultivate friendships with other women who can provide support and protection.Pro tipWomen should prioritize building strong social networksWarningWomen should be cautious of female friends who may not prioritize their protection and well-being
- Involve parents and kin in protectionWomen should involve their parents and kin in their protection strategy, as they can provide additional support and resources.Pro tipWomen should communicate their needs and boundaries clearly to their parents and kinWarningWomen should be aware of the potential risks of relying solely on their parents and kin for protection
Anthropologist Napoleon Chagnon described an episode in which a woman's husband was killed, and she was left vulnerable to sexual aggression. The woman's brother, who was physically formidable, provided protection and support.
A woman in the military described how she and her female colleagues would walk together in groups to avoid sexual aggression.
The Bodyguard Hypothesis was first proposed by Professors Sarah Mesnick and Margo Wilson, who argued that women's mate preferences for physically formidable men could be an adaptation to reduce the risk of sexual aggression.