random mating

mating behavior without mate selection. Many early behavioral ecology theories were based on the idea of random mating, but it is now recognized that most animals select specific mates and often show assortative mating.

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Psychology term of the day

May 8th 2024

divergent thinking

creative thinking in which an individual solves a problem or reaches a decision using strategies that deviate from commonly used or previously taught strategies. This term is often used synonymously with lateral thinking. Compare convergent thinking. [defined in 1967 by Joy Paul Guilford]