fluctuating asymmetry

the degree to which the symmetry of body parts of individuals varies from the norm for a given species. This provides information to others about the relative health or well-being of an individual: It is assumed that those with more symmetrical bodies are healthier and more vigorous than those with more asymmetry. Thus, fluctuating asymmetry is an important cue in mate-selection decisions.

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Psychology term of the day

November 28th 2024

complementary classification

in classification tasks, the grouping of items from conceptually different categories into a superordinate class based on an individual’s mental associations from past experience. For example, cow, tractor, and farmer may be grouped because they are all found on a farm. Also called functional classification; schematic classification; thematic classification. Compare conceptual classification; idiosyncratic classification; perceptual classification.