EPISODE · Apr 9, 2026 · 44 MIN
S4, Ep14: The Meaning of Evolutionary Psychology | Understanding men beyond the surface
from The Meaning of Men · host Simeon Atkins
What if everything we think we know about male behaviour is only scratching the surface? In this episode of The Meaning of Men I'm joined by Dr. Becci Owens, Head of Psychology at the University of Sunderland, to explore the deeper evolutionary forces shaping men, masculinity, and modern behaviour. From male competitiveness and risk-taking to status, relationships, and belonging, this conversation challenges mainstream narratives and invites a more nuanced understanding of what drives men today. Drawing on evolutionary psychology, Dr Becci unpacks how unconscious biological and social mechanisms influence everything from adolescent behaviour to mate selection and fatherhood. Together, we explore why young men are drawn to risk, how status-seeking shows up in both destructive and prosocial ways, and why many boys today struggle with identity and belonging. This episode is essential listening for anyone interested in male psychology, mental health, parenting boys, or understanding masculinity in a rapidly changing world. Expect thought-provoking insights, practical reflections, and a refreshing perspective that moves beyond surface-level explanations into the deeper “why” behind human behaviour. In this episode you will learn: How evolutionary psychology explains the deeper drivers of male behaviour Why status, competition, and risk-taking are hardwired into men How mating strategies shift across life stages and shape relationships Why many boys and men struggle with belonging in modern society How to channel masculine traits into positive, prosocial outcomes Hear more from Dr Becci: Instagram: @DrBecciO University website: https://www.sunderland.ac.uk/about/academic-staff/rebecca-owens Timestamps: 05:55: Becoming a Psychologist: A Personal Journey 10:25: The Lens of Evolutionary Psychology 16:48: Exploring Strategic Pluralism in Relationships 22:05: The Drive for Status in Men 29:19: Socializing Boys and Young Men 39:50: Bridging Gaps in Male Psychology Research
What this episode covers
What if everything we think we know about male behaviour is only scratching the surface? In this episode of The Meaning of Men I'm joined by Dr. Becci Owens, Head of Psychology at the University of Sunderland, to explore the deeper evolutionary forces shaping men, masculinity, and modern behaviour. From male competitiveness and risk-taking to status, relationships, and belonging, this conversation challenges mainstream narratives and invites a more nuanced understanding of what drives men today. Drawing on evolutionary psychology, Dr Becci unpacks how unconscious biological and social mechanisms influence everything from adolescent behaviour to mate selection and fatherhood. Together, we explore why young men are drawn to risk, how status-seeking shows up in both destructive and prosocial ways, and why many boys today struggle with identity and belonging. This episode is essential listening for anyone interested in male psychology, mental health, parenting boys, or understanding masculinity in a rapidly changing world. Expect thought-provoking insights, practical reflections, and a refreshing perspective that moves beyond surface-level explanations into the deeper “why” behind human behaviour. In this episode you will learn: How evolutionary psychology explains the deeper drivers of male behaviour Why status, competition, and risk-taking are hardwired into men How mating strategies shift across life stages and shape relationships Why many boys and men struggle with belonging in modern society How to channel masculine traits into positive, prosocial outcomes Hear more from Dr Becci: Instagram: @DrBecciO University website: https://www.sunderland.ac.uk/about/academic-staff/rebecca-owens Timestamps: 05:55: Becoming a Psychologist: A Personal Journey 10:25: The Lens of Evolutionary Psychology 16:48: Exploring Strategic Pluralism in Relationships 22:05: The Drive for Status in Men 29:19: Socializing Boys and Young Men 39:50: Bridging Gaps in Male Psychology Research
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S4, Ep14: The Meaning of Evolutionary Psychology | Understanding men beyond the surface
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