The Green Brain: A QEEG Investigation of the Domain-Specificity of Jealousy

Author

Aric R. Gerke, University of Tennessee - Knoxville

Date of Award

12-2007

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Major

Psychology

Major Professor

Michael Olson

Committee Members

Deborah Baldwin, Todd Freeberg

Abstract

Previous investigators have found evidence to support the hypothesis that the genders show differential reactions to emotional and sexual jealousy. Evolutionary psychology provides heuristic support by noting that the genders have faced divergent selection pressures in the past that jealousy could adaptively address. While these studies have given sound proof in this regard, criticism has arisen because of the dearth of support for the actual neurological process of jealousy. This study was designed to record subjects experiencing two separate conditions designed to elicit emotional and sexual jealousy. The electrophysiological results did not demonstrate evidence of domain-specificity of jealousy, and produced mixed results by showing gender differences but in directions not envisioned by a priori predictions.

Recommended Citation

Gerke, Aric R., "The Green Brain: A QEEG Investigation of the Domain-Specificity of Jealousy. " Master's Thesis, University of Tennessee, 2007.
https://trace.tennessee.edu/utk_gradthes/133