In a 2003 study looking at histocompatibility complex genes, symmetry, and body scent attractiveness in men and women, researchers asked 200 males and females to provide a blood sample to assess their major histocompatibility complex (MHC) gene, then to sleep a new clean T-shirt for two nights. Researchers also took photos of the males and females to document left- and right-side body symmetry. When the participants were asked about attractiveness, their answers indicated that the:
A) women who were using birth control, and were in the most fertile part of their menstrual cycle, preferred asymmetrical men's scent over symmetrical men's scent.
B) women who were not using a birth control, but were in the most fertile part of their menstrual cycle, preferred asymmetrical men's scent over symmetrical men's scent.
C) women who were using a birth control, and were in the most fertile part of their menstrual cycle, preferred symmetrical men's scent over asymmetrical men's scent.
D) women who were not using a birth control, and were in the most fertile part of their menstrual cycle, preferred symmetrical men's scent over asymmetrical men's scent.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Women not using birth control and in the most fertile part of their menstrual cycle showed a preference for the scent of symmetrical men, suggesting an evolutionary preference for potential mates with more genetic fitness, as symmetry is often associated with health and genetic quality.

In a 2003 Study Looking at Histocompatibility Complex Genes, Symmetry