Although several research with between-subjects design explores the effect of the conception risk across the menstrual cycle on women's interpersonal attitudes, there has not been enough relevant research considering within-subjects design. The purpose of this study was to examine whether altruistic behavior changes over time depending on conception risks. An online survey was conducted on a total of 94 Japanese female university students twice at a two-week interval. Conception risk was assessed based on self-reported information regarding days since the first day of their last menstrual period. Altruistic behavior towards three domains of personal relationships (family members, friends and acquaintances, and strangers) was measured from participants' answers to a questionnaire. A variable related to perceived vulnerability to disease (PVD) was also measured from a questionnaire. ANOVA indicated that altruistic behavior score toward family members increased when women were at the time of high risk of conception. ANOVA also indicated that altruistic behavior score toward strangers decreased when women with low PVD were at the time of low risk of conception. The results remained significant even after controlling for menstrual regularity and low-dose oral contraceptive use. The findings of the study highlight biological factors affecting women's interpersonal attitudes.

Authors:
Ryoko Takikawa, Waseda University, Japan
Yasuyuki Fukukawa, Waseda University, Japan

About the Presenter(s)
Ms Ryoko Takikawa is a University Doctoral Student at Waseda University in Japan

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