Polygyny refers to which of the following marital arrangements?

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Prepare for the MCAT Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Polygyny is defined as a marital arrangement in which one man is married to multiple women. This form of marriage is often observed in various cultures and societies around the world, where it may be associated with specific social, economic, or religious factors. In polygynous societies, the structure allows for multiple wives to be part of a single family unit, which can affect lineage, inheritance, and family dynamics.

The key distinction with polygyny is that it specifically emphasizes the relationship of a single male with multiple female partners, contrasting with polyandry, where one woman is married to multiple men, and other forms of marriage involving multiple parties or couples. Understanding this term is not only important in sociology and anthropology but also in discussions about social structures and the diverse practices surrounding marriage globally.