Singles Wanting Children Prefer More Mature-Looking Faces, Study Finds
Creatrip Team
3 months ago
A study of about 300 British adults (average age 30) found that while younger faces are generally rated as more attractive, people with stronger desires to have children rated relatively older-looking faces as more appealing. Participants (149 men, 151 women) evaluated 50 faces aged 19–55 and completed surveys about their wish to have and raise children. Researchers suggest that a more mature-looking face may signal psychological stability and readiness for family life. Lead author Jingheng Li said those seeking children prefer cues of overall maturity and preparedness rather than extreme youth. The paper was published in PLOS One on Dec. 4. A separate UK study of ~1,200 adults also showed sex differences in mate preferences: men prioritized partner attractiveness and desired humor and wealth for themselves, while women emphasized being attractive and intelligent themselves but preferred partners with humor and financial resources. The researchers argue these patterns reflect differing mating strategies and self-expectations.
