Atheists were perceived as more desirable in short-term mating than long-term mating (preference that did not translate to being preferred in that context over theists); this effect is specific to physically attractive targets

Brown, Mitch. 2021. “Preliminary Evidence for Aversion to Atheists in Long-term Mating Domains.” PsyArXiv. May 2. doi:10.31234/osf.io/gu7xy

Abstract: The centrality of religiosity in selecting long-term mates suggests the espousal of atheism could be undesirable for that context. Given recent findings suggesting the presence of several positive stereotypes about atheists, a largely distrusted group, it could be possible individuals prefer atheists in mating domains not emphasizing long-term commitment (i.e., short-term mating). I conducted two studies tasking participants with evaluating long-term and short-term mating desirability of theists and atheists while assessing perceptions of their personalities. Study 1 indicated atheists were perceived as more desirable in short-term mating than long-term mating, though this preference did not translate to being preferred in that context over theists. Study 2 demonstrated this effect is specific to physically attractive targets. I further found atheists were perceived as more prone to infidelity, especially if they were attractive. I frame results from an evolutionary perspective while discussing the pervasiveness of anti-atheist prejudice.