Error management theory (EMT) explores cognitive biases that arise from evolutionary pressures. It suggests that humans are prone to make certain errors in judgment, particularly in situations involving sexual interest and commitment. The theory maintains that these biases can lead to type I errors (false positives) and type II errors (false negatives), with different implications for men and women in mating contexts.
Men are more likely to overestimate women's sexual interest, leading to the sexual overperception bias. This bias has been observed in studies where men often misinterpret friendly behavior from women as sexual interest.
To overcome error management biases, individuals can engage in self-reflection and training that encourages awareness of their perceptual tendencies, helping them to accurately interpret social cues.