The self-reported importance of olfaction during human mate choice

Abstract

This study evaluated sex differences in the relative importance placed on olfactory cues during mate choice. To evaluate this, 151 men and 289 women completed an on-line version of the Romantic Interests Survey (RIS) (Herz & Inzlicht, ). Olfactory characteristics were declared to be extremely important during mate selection, more so than almost all other characteristics, but did not significantly differ between the sexes. There were significant differences concerning the odour source that individuals attend to, with greater preferences observed for a potential mate's body odour as opposed to artificial fragrances they use. These findings suggest the body odour characteristics of a potential mate are perceived to be an important factor during mate choice.