Mother-Offspring Conflict Framework
Conflict in utero
The Mother-Offspring Conflict Framework explains how mothers and their offspring have conflicting interests during pregnancy, with the offspring seeking to maximize its own survival and reproductive success, and the mother seeking to balance her own interests with those of her offspring.
- Mothers and offspring have conflicting interests during pregnancy.
- Offspring will seek to maximize their own survival and reproductive success, even if this comes at a cost to the mother.
- Mothers will seek to balance their own interests with those of their offspring, taking into account their own reproductive goals and limitations.
- Identify the conflicting interestsDetermine what interests are in conflict between the mother and offspring, such as resource allocation and reproductive success.Pro tipConsider the specific context and the needs of both the mother and offspring.WarningBe aware of the potential for conflict and take steps to manage it.
- Assess the reproductive interestsEvaluate the reproductive interests of both the mother and offspring, as these will drive their decisions regarding resource allocation and investment.Pro tipRecognize that reproductive interests can vary, even among family members.WarningDo not assume that reproductive interests are always aligned between mothers and offspring.
Resource allocation
A pregnant woman must decide how to allocate resources, such as nutrients and energy, between herself and her offspring.
OutcomeThe woman may choose to prioritize her own needs, or those of her offspring, depending on her reproductive goals and limitations.
Ignoring the conflict
Failing to recognize the inherent conflict between mothers and offspring during pregnancy can lead to unrealistic expectations and ineffective resource allocation.
This framework was first proposed by David Haig, building on the concept of parent-offspring conflict and the idea that mothers and offspring have different reproductive interests during pregnancy.
Source · BOOK
Evolutionary Psychology The New Science of the Mind