The differences of men and women are the basis of many studies. But just when science thinks they are starting to make sense of relationships, new research comes up with some new information that puts a new spin on what we thought we already knew. Today, we are going to look at three relatively new studies which have brought to the surface some very interesting rules of attraction that not everyone may know. While some of these rules may put a cramp on your dating style, knowledge is power, and knowing what you’re up against is one of the best ways to emerge a champion in the dating game!
Appearance
Research has shown that men are attracted to virtually the same women across the board, the stereotypical, thin, seductress. However, the one characteristic that appears to draw a man’s attention, regardless of outward appearance, is confidence. Women, on the other hand, while they may prefer thin, muscular men, actually do not have a stereotypical ideal. In other words, women have a very unique, personal taste when it comes to preferences in men. Just because a man is considered attractive by one woman, does not mean he will also be considered attractive by the majority of her peers.
What this research means in the real world, is that while quite an assortment of men find success in the dating world, women who base their success on looks alone, may or may not be on easy street. For every 10 women sitting at a bar, the same ones will maintain the majority of male attention. These women will always encounter less competition for the men they desire. However, any woman can level the playing field by simply exhibiting an air of confidence. Research indicates that there is but one time when a man will accept less than his ideal, and that is when faced with the prospects of a one night stand. Another reason for women not to engage in this practice.
Sense of Humor
Sense of humor is always one of the top characteristics dating couples require in a potential mate. Psychologist, Eric Bressler, from the McMaster University of Canada, questions whether or not men and women define humor the same way. His research suggests men use humor as a form of mating ritual, similar to the beautiful plum of a male peacock. They offer their most masterful and witty comments to their lady in waiting, and if she chooses to accept his advances, she let’s him know by a series of bird like calls, known as giggling.
Such a display of courtship can be seen in bars across America. However, when a woman attempts to deliver the same witty charm, that’s when things can get a little shaky. Bressler’s research suggests that while a man may enjoy bantering witty, humiliating comments back and forth to his buddies, when a woman joins in the fun, she becomes intimidating. According to studies, Men prefer women who appreciate humor, but don’t generate it. However, the more mature and secure a man is with himself, the more he will actually enjoy competing with her sense of humor.
Guilty Conscious
Researchers in Toronto, Canada, suggest men feel the most guilt about infidelity. Their explanation is that a woman’s guilty conscious is connected more with her emotion than her action. In other words, a woman will feel more guilt about falling in love with a co-worker, than staying late for a (emotionally unattached) romp on his desk, especially if she feels entitled. Studies suggest feelings of entitlement surface when a woman is not getting what she needs from the relationship. What this should say to men, is to tend to your relationship at the first sign of trouble. There are a lot of men after the same woman if you remember.
The guys aren’t completely off the hook. Other research suggests men are more prone to temptations of the flesh, especially when the seductress is single and of the ideal “type”. However, it is not necessarily that men want to cheat, but are just unprepared to deal with the situation. What this should say to women, is to question your man about what he would do if he were ever caught in that scenario, and don’t take, I don’t know, for an answer. Studies show that a man with a plan is much less vulnerable to temptation.
