Overview

This research group investigates human adaptation through the dual, interconnected lenses of evolutionary medicine and behavioral science. We aim to understand how environmental pressures shape both our physical health and our psychological mechanisms, treating physiological vulnerabilities and behavioral responses as equally vital components of human survival strategies. On the evolutionary medicine front, we examine human health, disease susceptibility, and physiological trade-offs to uncover the ultimate evolutionary causes of medical conditions under the framework of “evolutionary mismatch.” Concurrently, on the behavioral science and behavioral economics front, we analyze how these same ecological threats—such as pathogen stress and resource instability—recalibrate human cognition, social attitudes, and decision-making processes. Our methodology equally bridges biological and psychological approaches. We utilize structured behavioral experiments to investigate how the Behavioral Immune System (BIS) alters social perceptions and intergroup attitudes in response to infection risk. Simultaneously, we apply the concept of “time discounting” to explore how physiological deficits, such as hunger, shift our life history strategies and future valuations. By integrating these disciplines, we provide a comprehensive understanding of the complex interplay between bodily health and behavioral choices.

Associated Projects (Latest)

1. Hunger and Time Discounting: A Life History Perspective (Ongoing)
2. Beyond the Profet Hypothesis: New Directions in Nausea and Vomiting in Pregnancy (NVP) Research (Complete)
3. Mask Wearing Effects on Facial Attractiveness: Cross-Cultural Behavioral Immunity (Complete)
4. Mask Wearing Effects on Facial Attractiveness: COVID-19 and Individual Differences (Complete)