Nov. 19, 2009 Males have more pronounced personalities than
females across a range of species -- from humans to house
sparrows -- according to new research. Consistent personality
traits, such as aggression and daring, are also more important
to females when looking for a mate than they are to males.
Research from the University of Exeter draws together a range of
studies to reveal the role that sexual selection plays in this
disparity between males and females. The study shows that in
most species males show more consistent, predictable behaviours,
particularly in relation to parental care, aggression and risk-
taking. Females, on the other hand, are more likely to vary
their behaviour. They are also more likely to respond to these
traits and therefore seem to be 'choosier' about the personality
of a potential mate. The research, which is published in the
journal Biological Reviews (18 November 2009) draws on several
studies, dating back to 1972. It is the latest study in a
growing body of research from a Uni