| Abstract | Previous research shown that early-life environmental conditions serve as a predictor of a variety of related phenotypes later in life such as impulsivity, present focus, risky sexual behavior, and health-related risk taking. Within the context of life history theory (LHT), these traits are indicative of differences between life history strategies (LHS) in different individuals. Although a link between ecologically-dependent mortality threats and life history tradeoffs have been identified, no previous research has considered the role that internal factors could play in LHS development. The present research identified interleukin 1 beta (IL-1-beta) as a potential indicator of overall somatic condition and sought to identify a relationship between serum IL-1-beta levels and LHS. Participants provided whole blood samples and completed questionnaires to assess impulsivity and present focus. Data collected indicated higher IL-1-beta levels were correlated with a faster LHS. These results suggest internal factors, in some cases unrelated to the external environment, may calibrate LHS and affect behavior throughout life. |
