To preface, I don’t agree with the whole hypergamy theory AT ALL, but for this question let’s just assume that all women want the most physically in-shape man with desirable genes who can provide for her and their future children; and will leave her “beta”, or less desirable partner, if a better opportunity comes along. This discussion shouldn’t be about the validity of hypergamy as a theory.

Multiple studies show that women are more likely than men to stay with their seriously ill spouse, and men are more likely to divorce/leave. Are these facts compatible with the theory of hypergamy? If a woman’s husband is ill, and therefore unable to provide in many ways (financially, emotionally, sexually, etc.), why are they much more likely than their counterparts (men with ill wives) to stay with their partners when the biological motivation to stay is gone?

Does it have something to do with women generally being more sensitive/empathetic, or is there an underlying reason? Does this challenge or support the idea of female hypergamy?

SOURCES:

[6 times more likely study ](https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/ 2009/11/091110105401.htm)

Serious Medical Illness Partner Abandonment Study

I’ve only linked two, but there are many more that also corroborate these findings. This is my first post, let me know if I used the wrong flair/made a mistake and I’ll fix it ASAP! :)