What type of facial features did Cunningham find men preferred in women?

Cunningham's research identified that men tend to prefer women with neotenous facial features. Neotenous features are those that are childlike or youthful, such as a smaller chin, larger eyes, and fuller lips. These characteristics generally evoke feelings of warmth and approachability, which aligns with traditional notions of femininity and attractiveness.

In addition, neotenous traits are often interpreted as indicators of fertility and health, which can be biologically advantageous in mate selection. This preference for youthful features is supported by evolutionary psychology principles, suggesting that such traits signal reproductive fitness and genetic quality.

Other options such as highly symmetrical features, defined cheekbones, and prominent jawlines may be attractive to some, but Cunningham’s findings specifically highlighted the preference for neotenous characteristics in assessing what men find appealing in women’s faces.