ABSTRACT
Some 50,000 years ago, probably somewhere in Africa, the modern human was born. Mutations to the human genome led to changes in the human brain, which enabled this new species to have the capacity to make sophisticated tools, to develop language and culture, and to develop a sense of self. These changes further led to the development of complex social systems that gave the species enormous independence from environmental conditions. To support these social systems, humans evolved high-level motivations to compete for the approval and support of others (Barkow, 1989; Gilbert, 2001). Our species needs to be liked, valued, and approved of in order to elicit parental investment, develop supportive peer relationships, attract desirable mates, and engage successfully in many types of social relationships (Tooby & Cosmides, 1996). Ostracism from the social group impacts negatively on a variety of health-related variables, including one’s selfesteem and sense of belonging (Baumeister & Leary, 1995; Baumeister & Tice, 1990). As a result, humans naturally fear negative evaluation by their peers.
